Malaysia Reports Over 80,000 Hepatitis Cases in the Past Decade
Malaysia has recorded 49,992 cases of Hepatitis B and 34,573 cases of Hepatitis C between 2013 and 2023, according to Health Director-General Datuk Dr. Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan.
In a statement issued in conjunction with World Hepatitis Day, celebrated annually on July 28, Dr. Radzi emphasized the importance of preventive measures and treatment options. According to Dr Radzi, Hepatitis B can be prevented through immunisation, starting with the first dose at birth, followed by subsequent doses through the six-in-one combination vaccine at two, three, five, and 18 months of age. Specific treatments are now available to cure Hepatitis C, he added. He also highlighted the importance of collaboration among the government, private sector, and non-governmental organisations in providing immunisation services, screening, treatment, and advocacy.
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, usually caused by viral infections from Hepatitis A, B, C, D, or E viruses. While Hepatitis A and E are typically transmitted through contaminated food or water and do not usually lead to chronic disease, Hepatitis B, C, and D are spread through blood or bodily fluids and can result in chronic conditions such as liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Dr Radzi also referenced the 2024 Global Hepatitis Report, noting that in 2022, there were an estimated 2.2 million new cases of viral hepatitis worldwide. These included 1.1 million cases of Hepatitis B, 1.0 million of Hepatitis C, and 100,000 cases of other types of hepatitis infections. The report also recorded 1.3 million deaths, with 83% attributed to Hepatitis B and 17% to Hepatitis C.
The Health Ministry advises the public to maintain a healthy lifestyle and good personal hygiene to reduce the risk of contracting hepatitis. Individuals at high risk are encouraged to undergo screenings and seek treatment at healthcare facilities. Early detection and treatment can prevent severe liver disease, liver cancer, and potentially save lives.
He advised that if a child misses their Hepatitis B immunisation, parents should consult the nearest health clinic to reschedule the vaccination.
Category: MJN enews
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