World Hepatitis Day 2024: In-Depth Interview with Dr. S K Sarin Part - 2

Summary

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Serin highlights the global impact of viral hepatitis, particularly in India, emphasizing the urgent need for action. He outlines the importance of distinguishing between infection and disease, the effectiveness of treatments for Hepatitis B and C, and the significance of India's National Viral Hepatitis Control Program. Dr. Serin advocates for increased public awareness, testing, and treatment to combat the stigma and reduce the high mortality rates associated with these chronic infections. He also stresses the importance of a 'whole of society' approach to eliminate hepatitis by 2030, treating all infected individuals to prevent transmission and new infections.

Takeaways

• 🌐 Globally, 96% of the 1.3 million hepatitis-related deaths are due to Hepatitis B and C, highlighting their significant impact on public health.
• 💉 Vaccination and immunization are critical in combating viral hepatitis, especially since Hepatitis A and E can be cleared by the body, unlike the chronic infections of Hepatitis B and C.
• 💊 Effective treatments exist for Hepatitis B and C, with Hepatitis C having a cure rate of 90-95% within 12 weeks using oral medications.
• 🇮🇳 India has a National Viral Hepatitis Control Program offering free testing, treatment, and monitoring for Hepatitis C, a privilege few countries provide.
• 🚫 The mindset of infected individuals often leads to unnecessary fear and avoidance of normal life activities, despite the fact that infection does not equate to disease.
• 📉 The risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer significantly decreases with proper treatment of Hepatitis B and C.
• 📈 Awareness and early detection are crucial for reducing hepatitis-related deaths, emphasizing the need for public education and participation.
• 📊 India's National Viral Hepatitis Control Program, despite being well-structured, requires more visibility and public engagement to be fully effective.
• 🌟 Celebrity involvement in awareness campaigns, similar to those for TB, could significantly boost public understanding and empathy towards hepatitis.
• 🏥 The healthcare system and government need to prioritize hepatitis prevention, screening, and treatment, especially in resource-constrained settings.
• 🎯 The goal is to eliminate hepatitis by 2030, which requires a whole-of-society approach, including education, testing, and treatment for all infected individuals.

Q & A

What is the global status of viral hepatitis, particularly in India?

Viral hepatitis, particularly Hepatitis B and C, is a significant public health issue with 96% of the 1.3 million deaths due to hepatitis being caused by these two types. India has a National Viral Hepatitis Control Program since 2018, which provides free testing, treatment, and monitoring for Hepatitis C.

What is the difference between Hepatitis A, B, C, and D in terms of infection persistence?

Hepatitis A and E are typically cleared by the body, while Hepatitis B, C, and D are chronic infections that persist for life unless treated. Hepatitis B treatment aims to suppress the virus, similar to HIV, with clearance being rare.

What is the significance of the theme 'Time to take action against hepatitis'?

The theme emphasizes the urgency to increase awareness, improve screening, and ensure treatment accessibility to combat the high mortality rate associated with Hepatitis B and C.

How effective are the current treatments for Hepatitis B and C?

For Hepatitis C, there are very effective drugs that can clear the virus within about 12 weeks, with a 90-95% clearance rate. Hepatitis B treatment involves daily medication to suppress the virus, significantly reducing the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer.

What is the importance of distinguishing between being infected with Hepatitis B and having the disease?

It's crucial to differentiate because only 1 to 10% of those infected will develop the disease. Many infected individuals may not show symptoms and can live normal lives if the virus is suppressed with treatment.

Why is awareness and testing for Hepatitis C important, especially for certain groups?

Awareness and testing are important because Hepatitis C can be asymptomatic yet lead to severe liver damage or cancer. High-risk groups such as those who have received blood transfusions, IV drug users, and individuals who have undergone surgery should get tested.

What is the role of the Indian government in combating viral hepatitis?

The Indian government has established a National Viral Hepatitis Control Program that offers free hepatitis C drugs, testing, and monitoring. The program aims to increase visibility and awareness to reduce the stigma and improve public participation.

How can public figures and celebrities contribute to raising awareness about hepatitis?

Public figures like actors can have a significant impact on raising awareness by participating in campaigns, sharing their personal experiences, and advocating for the importance of testing and treatment.

What are the challenges faced by the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program in India?

While the program provides free services, challenges include low public participation, lack of awareness, and the stigma associated with hepatitis, which hinder early detection and treatment.

What is the significance of the 'WOM' program in hepatitis awareness?

The 'WOM' program involves women who are hepatitis positive becoming ambassadors to educate and support others. Their personal experiences make them effective in spreading the message and reducing fear and stigma.

What are the future aspirations for hepatitis care and management globally?

The aspiration is to treat all infected individuals, not just those with the disease, to reduce the pool of potential transmitters. This approach aims to eliminate hepatitis by the end of the century, ensuring future generations are free from hepatitis B and C.