Hepatitis C is a formidable virus that silently attacks the liver, causing inflammation, scarring, and long-term damage. Despite being curable in most cases, it often goes unnoticed until complications arise. Understanding the transmission, symptoms, and potential complications of Hepatitis C is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective treatment to prevent severe consequences.

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is primarily transmitted through blood contact. Intravenous drug use, poorly sterilised medical equipment, and blood transfusions without rigorous screening were major sources of transmission in the past. Today, with improved screening processes and public awareness, these routes have become less common.

While sexual transmission is possible, the risk is relatively low compared to other hepatitis viruses, such as Hepatitis B. It is important to practice safe sex and use barrier protection to reduce the risk of transmission. 
 
When HCV enters the body, it can cause an acute infection with symptoms similar to the flu. However, it often goes undiagnosed because the symptoms can be mild or non-specific. Approximately 10–20 per cent of people infected with HCV will naturally clear the virus without any specific treatment.

The real danger lies in the remaining 80 per cent who develop chronic HCV infections. Chronic HCV can last a lifetime if left untreated and can lead to severe liver damage, making it imperative to identify and treat it early.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-world-hepatitis-day-2023-diet--lifestyle-modifications-to-nurture-liver-health--combat-nafld-620229">World Hepatitis Day 2023: Diet &amp; lifestyle modifications to nurture liver health &amp; combat NAFLD</a>

Hepatitis C is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it can silently wreak havoc on the liver without noticeable symptoms for years. This is particularly concerning because by the time symptoms manifest, significant liver damage may have occurred, leading to life-threatening complications.

When symptoms do appear, they may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, rashes on the body, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. However, these symptoms can be attributed to various other conditions, leading to a delayed diagnosis.

Without proper treatment, chronic HCV can progress to severe complications, including cirrhosis of the liver, liver failure, and even liver cancer. Cirrhosis is characterised by the irreversible scarring of the liver tissue, impairing its ability to function properly. This condition can eventually lead to liver failure, where the liver loses its ability to carry out essential bodily functions. Furthermore, long-term inflammation and damage increase the risk of liver cancer.

Timely diagnosis and treatment are vital to preventing the progression of HCV and its life-threatening complications. Screening tests are available to detect HCV antibodies, which indicate exposure to the virus. If the antibodies are detected, additional tests are conducted to confirm the presence of an active infection and assess the level of liver damage.

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Fortunately, medical advancements have made HCV highly curable. Antiviral medications, often taken for several weeks to several months, have shown remarkable success rates in clearing the virus from the body. Early treatment can prevent severe liver damage and reduce the risk of complications.

Prevention plays a crucial role in combating Hepatitis C. Public awareness about the modes of transmission, practising safe sex, and avoiding sharing needles or personal items that may come into contact with blood are essential preventive measures.

Moreover, screening blood donors and ensuring proper sterilisation procedures in medical settings have significantly reduced the transmission of HCV through blood transfusions or medical procedures.&nbsp;

(Inputs by&nbsp;Dr Vikrant Kale, Consultant Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist &amp; Interventional Endoscopist at Ruby Hall Clinic, Hinjewadi, Pune)

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Hepatitis C is a formidable virus that silently attacks the liver, causing inflammation, scarring, and long-term damage. Despite being curable in most cases, it often goes unnoticed until complications arise.

Hepatitis C is a formidable virus that silently attacks the liver, causing inflammation, scarring, and long-term damage. Despite being curable in most cases, it often goes unnoticed until complications arise. Understanding the transmission, symptoms, and potential complications of Hepatitis C is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective treatment to prevent severe consequences. Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is primarily transmitted through blood contact. Intravenous drug use, poorly sterilised medical equipment, and blood transfusions without rigorous screening were major sources of transmission in the past. Today, with improved screening processes and public awareness, these routes have become less common. While sexual transmission is possible, the risk is relatively low compared to other hepatitis viruses, such as Hepatitis B. It is important to practice safe sex and use barrier protection to reduce the risk of transmission. When HCV enters the body, it can cause an acute infection with symptoms similar to the flu. However, it often goes undiagnosed because the symptoms can be mild or non-specific. Approximately 10–20 per cent of people infected with HCV will naturally clear the virus without any specific treatment. The real danger lies in the remaining 80 per cent who develop chronic HCV infections. Chronic HCV can last a lifetime if left untreated and can lead to severe liver damage, making it imperative to identify and treat it early. Also read: World Hepatitis Day 2023: Diet & lifestyle modifications to nurture liver health & combat NAFLD Hepatitis C is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it can silently wreak havoc on the liver without noticeable symptoms for years. This is particularly concerning because by the time symptoms manifest, significant liver damage may have occurred, leading to life-threatening complications. When symptoms do appear, they may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, rashes on the body, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. However, these symptoms can be attributed to various other conditions, leading to a delayed diagnosis. Without proper treatment, chronic HCV can progress to severe complications, including cirrhosis of the liver, liver failure, and even liver cancer. Cirrhosis is characterised by the irreversible scarring of the liver tissue, impairing its ability to function properly. This condition can eventually lead to liver failure, where the liver loses its ability to carry out essential bodily functions. Furthermore, long-term inflammation and damage increase the risk of liver cancer. Timely diagnosis and treatment are vital to preventing the progression of HCV and its life-threatening complications. Screening tests are available to detect HCV antibodies, which indicate exposure to the virus. If the antibodies are detected, additional tests are conducted to confirm the presence of an active infection and assess the level of liver damage. Also read: 4 things leaders can do to promote a healthy work environment Fortunately, medical advancements have made HCV highly curable. Antiviral medications, often taken for several weeks to several months, have shown remarkable success rates in clearing the virus from the body. Early treatment can prevent severe liver damage and reduce the risk of complications. Prevention plays a crucial role in combating Hepatitis C. Public awareness about the modes of transmission, practising safe sex, and avoiding sharing needles or personal items that may come into contact with blood are essential preventive measures. Moreover, screening blood donors and ensuring proper sterilisation procedures in medical settings have significantly reduced the transmission of HCV through blood transfusions or medical procedures. (Inputs by Dr Vikrant Kale, Consultant Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist & Interventional Endoscopist at Ruby Hall Clinic, Hinjewadi, Pune) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Hepatitis Day 2023: The silent killer and how it can be silenced

Hepatitis, a condition characterised by liver inflammation, can stem from various factors, including viral infections (hepatitis A, E, B, and C) and alcohol consumption. However, one often overlooked contributor is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is quite prevalent in India, leading to advanced liver damage and cirrhosis.

NAFLD is closely associated with a sedentary lifestyle and excessive calorie intake, often linked to metabolic syndrome, which includes obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and abnormal lipid profiles.

Excess body weight is the most common risk factor for NAFLD in India, seen in almost 90 per cent of patients. Diabetes is also commonly associated with NAFLD.

Diagnosed mostly through routine blood tests or incidental ultrasound findings, NAFLD might not present significant symptoms in its early stages. Lifestyle intervention becomes the cornerstone of treatment, with dietary management and exercise aimed at reducing weight, which can reverse or control disease progression.

Studies recommend a 7-10 per cent&nbsp;weight loss to achieve meaningful liver health improvement.

Dietary changes play a crucial role, involving calorie restriction, reduced consumption of carbohydrates and saturated fats, and avoiding sweetened beverages and trans-fats. Research has shown that restricting the intake of free sugars to less than 5-10 per cent of total energy intake, along with reducing saturated fat intake to less than 10 per cent of total energy, can effectively combat NAFLD. Replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats further enhances liver health.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-world-ivf-day-2023-expert-shares-tips-for-successful-ivf-treatment-619342">World IVF Day 2023: Expert shares tips for successful IVF treatment</a>

In addition to dietary adjustments, exercise protocols typically include moderate-intensity aerobic exercises for at least 5 days a week, supplemented by resistance exercises&nbsp;if needed, leading to benefits beyond weight loss, such as improved diabetes control and fatty liver. Engaging in physical activities like brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming supports liver health and overall well-being.

Moreover, traditional practices like yoga asanas may also offer similar benefits. Yoga asanas, involving physical exertion and maintenance of body postures, have been in practice for generations and are expected to have positive effects on liver health, further complementing lifestyle modifications. 
 
It is important to manage other risk factors for liver disease with medications, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and lipid abnormalities. Studies have shown that obese patients who have been advised medications or other treatments to reduce weight, like a gastric balloon and bariatric surgery, also end up improving their liver abnormalities.

For patients with advanced liver damage, medications are advised; unfortunately, some patients with advanced disease may go on to develop liver failure, where a liver transplant may be the only alternative. Therefore, early-stage intervention through lifestyle changes and adherence to treatment plans becomes critical.

<h2>Final Verdict</h2>

NAFLD is a form of liver injury related to modern sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy eating practices. By making changes in our dietary habits and regular exercise schedule, we can prevent and reverse this disease in the early stages.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-couples-therapist-shares-5-secrets-to-a-happy-and-fulfilling-relationship--exclusive-619172">Couples therapist shares 5 secrets to a happy and fulfilling relationship | Exclusive</a>

This World Hepatitis Day, let us recognise the importance of lifestyle modifications in nurturing liver health and combating NAFLD, a silent yet significant threat. By raising awareness and taking proactive steps, we can pave the way towards a healthier future for all.

(Inputs by&nbsp;Dr Suraj Bhagat, Senior Consultant, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad)

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Hepatitis, a condition characterised by liver inflammation, can stem from various factors, including viral infections (hepatitis A, E, B, and C) and alcohol consumption.

Hepatitis, a condition characterised by liver inflammation, can stem from various factors, including viral infections (hepatitis A, E, B, and C) and alcohol consumption. However, one often overlooked contributor is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is quite prevalent in India, leading to advanced liver damage and cirrhosis. NAFLD is closely associated with a sedentary lifestyle and excessive calorie intake, often linked to metabolic syndrome, which includes obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and abnormal lipid profiles. Excess body weight is the most common risk factor for NAFLD in India, seen in almost 90 per cent of patients. Diabetes is also commonly associated with NAFLD. Diagnosed mostly through routine blood tests or incidental ultrasound findings, NAFLD might not present significant symptoms in its early stages. Lifestyle intervention becomes the cornerstone of treatment, with dietary management and exercise aimed at reducing weight, which can reverse or control disease progression. Studies recommend a 7-10 per cent weight loss to achieve meaningful liver health improvement. Dietary changes play a crucial role, involving calorie restriction, reduced consumption of carbohydrates and saturated fats, and avoiding sweetened beverages and trans-fats. Research has shown that restricting the intake of free sugars to less than 5-10 per cent of total energy intake, along with reducing saturated fat intake to less than 10 per cent of total energy, can effectively combat NAFLD. Replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats further enhances liver health. Also read: World IVF Day 2023: Expert shares tips for successful IVF treatment In addition to dietary adjustments, exercise protocols typically include moderate-intensity aerobic exercises for at least 5 days a week, supplemented by resistance exercises if needed, leading to benefits beyond weight loss, such as improved diabetes control and fatty liver. Engaging in physical activities like brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming supports liver health and overall well-being. Moreover, traditional practices like yoga asanas may also offer similar benefits. Yoga asanas, involving physical exertion and maintenance of body postures, have been in practice for generations and are expected to have positive effects on liver health, further complementing lifestyle modifications. It is important to manage other risk factors for liver disease with medications, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and lipid abnormalities. Studies have shown that obese patients who have been advised medications or other treatments to reduce weight, like a gastric balloon and bariatric surgery, also end up improving their liver abnormalities. For patients with advanced liver damage, medications are advised; unfortunately, some patients with advanced disease may go on to develop liver failure, where a liver transplant may be the only alternative. Therefore, early-stage intervention through lifestyle changes and adherence to treatment plans becomes critical. Final Verdict NAFLD is a form of liver injury related to modern sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy eating practices. By making changes in our dietary habits and regular exercise schedule, we can prevent and reverse this disease in the early stages. Also read: Couples therapist shares 5 secrets to a happy and fulfilling relationship | Exclusive This World Hepatitis Day, let us recognise the importance of lifestyle modifications in nurturing liver health and combating NAFLD, a silent yet significant threat. By raising awareness and taking proactive steps, we can pave the way towards a healthier future for all. (Inputs by Dr Suraj Bhagat, Senior Consultant, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Hepatitis Day 2023: Diet & lifestyle modifications to nurture liver health & combat NAFLD

As staggering as it may sound, globally, viral hepatitis affects 400 million people globally, over 10 times the number of people affected with HIV, according to figures released by World Health Organization (WHO). 
 
The viral disease that causes inflammation of liver is categorised under three types: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.&nbsp; 
<img alt="" class="img-responsive" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/who%203-20160728033516.jpg" />
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An overview of deaths reported each year since 1990.
</div>
 
The United Nation&#39;s (UN) public health arm reveals while 7,00,000 people die each year from hepatitis C-related liver diseases, more than 686,000 people die every year due to complications of hepatitis B, including cirrhosis and liver cancer.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="" class="img-responsive" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/who%202-20160728030431.jpg" />
<div class="media-description">
Here&#39;s how hepatitis is affecting the world.
</div>
 
While Hepatitis C is found worldwide, the most affected regions are Africa and Central and East Asia. Hepatitis B&#39;s prevalence is highest in sub-Saharan Africa and East Asia, where between 5&ndash;10 percent of the adult population is chronically infected, says WHO.&nbsp; 
 
 
<img alt="" class="img-responsive" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/who1-20160728030023.jpg" />
<div class="media-description">
In 2013, viral hepatitis was counted as the seventh leading cause of mortality across the world.
</div>
(WION)&nbsp;

East Asia is among one of the most affected regions in the world where large number of Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C have been reported

As staggering as it may sound, globally, viral hepatitis affects 400 million people globally, over 10 times the number of people affected with HIV, according to figures released by World Health Organization (WHO). The viral disease that causes inflammation of liver is categorised under three types: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. An overview of deaths reported each year since 1990. The United Nation's (UN) public health arm reveals while 7,00,000 people die each year from hepatitis C-related liver diseases, more than 686,000 people die every year due to complications of hepatitis B, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. Here's how hepatitis is affecting the world. While Hepatitis C is found worldwide, the most affected regions are Africa and Central and East Asia. Hepatitis B's prevalence is highest in sub-Saharan Africa and East Asia, where between 5–10 percent of the adult population is chronically infected, says WHO. In 2013, viral hepatitis was counted as the seventh leading cause of mortality across the world. (WION)

World Hepatitis Day: 1.4 million die annually due to the viral disease, underlines WHO?

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World Hepatitis Day 2023: The silent killer and how it can be silenced

World Hepatitis Day 2023: Diet & lifestyle modifications to nurture liver health & combat NAFLD

World Hepatitis Day: 1.4 million die annually due to the viral disease, underlines WHO?