PETALING JAYA: Hepatitis, often described as a silent disease as infections can go unnoticed for years, has prompted health experts to call for greater public awareness, early screening and vaccination.
Universiti Putra Malaysia epidemiologist Assoc Prof Dr Malina Osman said hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by factors such as viral infections, toxins, certain medications or autoimmune diseases.
“The inflammation of the liver may persist for years in these three types, potentially leading to liver damage, cirrhosis and eventually liver cancer,” she said in conjunction with World Hepatitis Day on July 28.
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She urged the government to strengthen national hepatitis screening and surveillance programmes while expanding access to affordable hepatitis B vaccination and hepatitis C treatment at clinics nationwide.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia public health specialist Prof Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh warned that hepatitis B and C infections frequently present with few or no early symptoms, causing many patients to delay seeking medical attention.
She advised those with a family history of hepatitis B or C to undergo screening and avoid sharing personal items that may come into contact with bodily fluids, such as razors.
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Public health expert Datuk Dr Zainal Ariffin Omar said hepatitis is a preventable and treatable disease, and even hepatitis C can be cured if detected early.
“Parents should ensure their children receive the hepatitis B vaccine, while hepatitis A vaccination is also recommended for food handlers and other high-risk groups,” he said.
