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Viral hepatitis affects 325 million people worldwide. Today we'll explore two major types: hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV).<br>We'll cover transmission, symptoms, and treatment options for both diseases. New medications offer hope for many patients.
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Understanding Hepatitis B and C Viral hepatitis affects 325 million people worldwide. Today we'll explore two major types: hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV). We'll cover transmission, symptoms, and treatment options for both diseases. New medications offer hope for many patients. by benjamin taylor
Hepatitis B Overview Viral Infection 1 HBV attacks the liver. It spreads through blood and bodily fluids. Mother- to-child transmission occurs during childbirth. Infection Types 2 Acute infections last under six months. Chronic infections persist longer. Children have higher chronic risk. Warning Signs 3 Symptoms include fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal pain. Many people show no symptoms until liver damage occurs. Serious Complications 4 Untreated chronic HBV can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Regular monitoring is essential.
Hepatitis B Treatment Diagnosis Blood tests confirm HBV infection. Liver function tests and viral load help determine treatment. Oral Antivirals Tenofovir and entecavir suppress viral replication. These hepatitis B medications reduce liver damage risk. Immune Modulators Interferon boosts immune response against the virus. It's used in specific patient groups. Treatment Goals Hepatitis B medicine aims to reduce viral load and prevent complications. Most treatments control rather than cure.
Hepatitis C Overview Viral Cause Transmission 1 HCV is a blood-borne virus affecting Primarily spreads through blood contact 2 the liver Silent Damage 4 Chronic Progression 3 Often symptomless until advanced 75-85% of infections become chronic stages Many people remain undiagnosed for years. Without treatment, HCV can cause severe liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
Hepatitis C Treatment Before 2013 1 Interferon-based treatments had low cure rates. Side effects were severe. Treatment lasted up to 48 weeks. 2013-2014 2 First direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) emerged. Cure rates improved to 70%. Treatment duration shortened. 2015-Present 3 Modern hepatitis C medication achieves >95% cure rates. Treatment takes just 8-12 weeks with minimal side effects. Future 4 Simplified testing and treatment expand access. New hepatitis C medicine combinations continue to improve outcomes. Medication 5 Medications like Sofosbuvir cure HCV in most patients. Eliminating the virus prevents further transmission in communities.
Comparison: Hepatitis B vs. C Hepatitis B Hepatitis C Vaccine available No vaccine available Treatments suppress but rarely cure Curable with modern treatments More common globally More common in certain regions Higher mother-to-child transmission Lower mother-to-child transmission Lifelong monitoring often needed Can achieve complete cure
Prevention Strategies Vaccination Safe Practices Testing Hepatitis B vaccine is highly effective. It's recommended for all infants and high-risk adults. Use sterile needles. Screen blood donations. Practice safe sex with condoms. Don't share personal items. Regular screening for high-risk groups. Early detection enables prompt treatment and prevents transmission. Education Awareness programs reduce stigma. They help people understand risks and seek appropriate
Conclusion and Future Outlook Global Elimination 1 WHO aims to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030 Research Advances 2 Scientists work toward hepatitis B cure Treatment Access 3 Expanding availability of medications worldwide Testing Initiatives 4 Increasing awareness and screening programs Education 5 Reducing stigma through public health campaigns Hepatitis B and C are now manageable with effective medications. Early diagnosis and treatment prevent serious complications and transmission to others.