Hepatitis B causes one third of chronic liver disease, 50% of liver cancer: Experts

Hepatitis A accounts to a majority of all acute liver failure in India.

India has world’s second highest prevalence of viral hepatitis cases. While hepatitis A and E cause an acute form of the disease, hepatitis B and C lead to chronic liver disease including cirrhosis and even liver cancer. Hepatitis B infection alone accounts for a third of all chronic liver disease and over 50% of all liver cancer patients in India. Hepatitis A accounts to a majority of all acute liver failure in India.

Hepatitis, a group of liver diseases characterized by inflammation, encompasses various types such as hepatitis A, B, and E. While hepatitis B predominantly affects adults and poses a substantial burden on public health due to its chronicity and association with liver cancer, hepatitis A and E primarily impact children and adults through contaminated food and water, leading to acute liver inflammation. Hepatitis A (HAV) predominantly affects individuals below 19 years old, while Hepatitis E (HEV) is more prevalent in those above 20 years old. Clinical disease related to HAV is less common among children, with susceptible adolescents and adults facing a higher risk of infection and illness. HAV can also lead to relapses, unlike HEV. Additionally, HAV may cause “prolonged cholestasis” during recovery, presenting symptoms such as itching, clay-colored stools, and a second surge in jaundice. Diagnosis and treatment of these types of hepatitis also differ.

Highlighting the importance of treating fatty liver disease in the population, which is fast becoming a significant cause of concern due to its causative linkage with other non-communicable diseases, Dr. Shiv Kumar Sarin, Director ILBS, said, “The liver is the body’s unsung hero, silently performing vital functions. We must prioritise liver health to ensure overall well-being”.

Hepatitis B infection alone accounts for a third of all chronic liver disease and over 50 per cent of al liver cancer patients in India. Hepatitis A accounts to a majority of all acute liver failure in India. Emphasising to develop a pioneering primary care model for liver diseases, Dr. Vinod Paul, Member of NITI Aayog, said that the government is committed to improving liver health outcomes in India. We are actively working on expanding access to diagnostics, treatment, and public awareness campaigns,” he said.

 The recently released Global Hepatitis Report 2024 by World Health Organisation has data which is of severe concern to India. The report also points troubling fact that despite progress in preventing the prevalence and spread of Hepatitis, the mortality rates are still on the rise as only a few patients avail proper diagnosis and treatment. According to WHO’s report, India has one of the highest burdens of viral hepatitis.

Underlining the importance of early detection of liver disease, Dr. Rohan Krishnan, FAIMA Chairman, said regular check-ups and screenings are essential for complete treatment of liver issues.