World Hepatitis Day takes place on July 28, 2018. The annual initiative is meant to raise awareness and discuss the prevention of hepatitis, a liver infection that can be classified as A, B or C. Hepatitis is spread by drug usage through the sharing of dirty needles, alcohol use, and sexual activity. Some underlying medical conditions cause hepatitis while other forms of the infection are caused by a virus.
How Many People Have Hepatitis and Don’t Know It?
According to the World Hepatitis Day website, over 300 million people have hepatitis and don’t even know it. That’s why it’s so very important to encourage screenings for the infection. Women are encouraged to download campaign materials from the website, alert others to the danger of the untreated infection, and offer options for diagnosing and treating hepatitis.
Liver-Related Diseases Worsened by the Presence of Hepatitis in the Body
The infection causes 1.34 million deaths a year. Two out of three people who are living with liver cancer die because of untreated hepatitis. Working toward a cure for the infection is a common goal of educators, researchers, medical professionals, and advocates from around the world.
Although it may not seem like much considering the severity of the infection, everything you do helps. Imagine being a woman who is unaware she has hepatitis. Early detection and treatment could literally save her life.
STD Screenings are Provided as a Service at OBGYN High Desert
Visit Dr. Ahmadinia for routine STD screenings and treatment options concerning hepatitis. Engaging in safe sex practices using a condom is recommended to prevent the spread of viruses such as HIV and hepatitis. If you want to do something to observe World Hepatitis Day this year, make sure to engage in preventative care and schedule an annual wellness appointment with the OBGYN right away.
