Hepatitis is a severe medical condition linked to our liver, and a lack of awareness about it frequently leads to major health complications. This condition is primarily divided into five distinct types known as A, B, C, D, and E. Among these, Hepatitis B and C are considered the most dangerous because their initial symptoms rarely show up on the surface. Due to this characteristic, they are frequently referred to as silent killers. An infected individual can live with the virus for years without experiencing any major discomfort, while the virus continuously damages the liver underneath.
Why It Is Called A Silent Killer
By the time warning signs like jaundice, excessive fatigue, or abdominal pain become apparent, the condition often progresses into severe stages such as liver cirrhosis or liver cancer. This raises an important question regarding whether every single person should undergo screening for it. Dr. Rinkesh Kumar Bansal, Director of Gastroenterology at Fortis, has explained precisely who needs to prioritize this test.
Who Needs To Get Tested According To Experts
According to Dr. Rinkesh Kumar Bansal, because hepatitis can inflict severe damage on the liver over long periods without any obvious symptoms, routine screening is not necessary for every single individual. However, timely testing is crucial for specific vulnerable groups. People who have received contaminated blood transfusions in the past, those who have used unsafe injections or gotten tattoos, individuals undergoing dialysis, healthcare workers, and those who have a family history of hepatitis B or C should definitely get screened.
Precautions During Pregnancy And General Awareness
Additionally, screening for hepatitis B is mandatory for pregnant women to ensure the infection does not pass on to the newborn child. If someone has been suffering from prolonged fatigue, jaundice, loss of appetite, abdominal swelling, or any other liver-related issue, they must consult a doctor and undergo testing immediately. Effective vaccines are currently available to prevent hepatitis B, and successful treatment is entirely possible if hepatitis C is diagnosed on time. Therefore, early detection, vigilance, and appropriate medical care remain the most effective defenses against this illness.
