From Olatunji Omirin, Maiduguri

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned that about 200 million Nigerians are living with hepatitis B, C, or both without knowing their status, exposing themselves to severe consequences, including liver cancer, cirrhosis, and death if left untamed.
 
The WHO, in partnership with the Borno State government, has launched a hepatitis initiative, including free testing and vaccination exercises, to mitigate the effects on society.
 
The WHO State Coordinator in Borno, Dr. Salisu Audu, disclosed this while addressing neewsmen to mark this 2024 World Hepatitis Day with the theme “It’s Time for Action.” in Maiduguri on Tuesday.
 
He said statistics show that only 36% of people infected with hepatitis C are diagnosed, while just 20% receive curative treatment. The five-year survival rate for liver cancer is a mere 20%.
 
Audu explained that the human cost of hepatitis is enormous, with families and communities losing loved ones to a preventable and treatable disease.
 
He said, “Hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver caused by viral infections, alcohol abuse, and toxic substances, can progress silently to liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and death if left untreated.
 
“To address this, the WHO has launched a global strategy to reduce new infections by 90% and deaths by 65% by 2030. Prevention measures, including vaccination, safe injection practices, and screening, can prevent new infections. Early diagnosis and treatment can also save lives.
 
In Nigeria, the day serves as a reminder of the need for increased awareness, prevention, and treatment efforts to combat the spread of the disease.”
 
Hepatitis B and C are viral infections that can cause severe liver damage, liver cancer, and even death if left untreated. The high prevalence of the disease in Nigeria is attributed to limited access to healthcare, poor sanitation, and inadequate vaccination coverage.
 
WHO urged the government to scale up efforts to provide free screening, vaccination, and treatment services to affected communities and to launch public awareness campaigns to educate people about the risks and prevention methods.
 
Also speaking, the Borno Commissioner of Health and Human Resources, Prof. Baba Malum Gana, has reiterated the state government’s commitment to combating hepatitis through collaborative efforts with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and other partners. 
 
Prof. Gana said the government will prioritise creating awareness among the public as a crucial step in the fight against hepatitis.