ONE LIFE...ONE LIVER: July 28 World Hepatitis Day!

COMPILED BY DR R.PARATHASARATHY

What is World Hepatitis Day?

World Hepatitis Day (WHD) takes places every year on 28 July bringing the world together under a single theme to raise awareness of the global burden of viral hepatitis and to influence real change.

ONE LIFE...ONE LIVER

On World Hepatitis Day, 28 July, we call on people from across the world to take action and raise awareness of hepatitis.

World Hepatitis Day is observed annually on 28 July to raise awareness about the disease which causes inflammation of the liver and claims around 1.4 million lives every year. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), after Tuberculosis, the second major killer infectious disease is Hepatitis. Motive of the campaign will be to achieve global elimination of the disease by 2030. The idea is to spread awareness about the fact that "hepatitis is preventable and treatable.

What is Hepatitis?

It is an inflammatory condition of the liver, which is caused by a viral infection. Use of drugs, toxins, alcohol and certain medications can also cause Hepatitis. Autoimmune Hepatitis is also common, which occurs when the body makes antibodies against liver tissue. In case you are overweight or obese, there's an underlying risk of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) where extra fat builds up on liver cells. People with diabetes are also susceptible to NAFLD. Caused by different types of viruses, Hepatitis is of five types — Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Among these, Hepatitis A, B, and C are the most common.

Some of the objectives of World Hepatitis Day

1. Involve as many people as possible to focus together on this issue

2. Raising awareness about various types of Hepatitis and their mode of transmission

3. Educate people about prevention, diagnosis, and control of Hepatitis

4. Spread awareness about Hepatitis A and B vaccines

5. Notify the public about comprehensive care and treatment options available for the different forms of hepatitis

6. Dismissing social stigma associated with this disease

7. Increase number of skilled medical professionals in order to enhance quality care

Liver-friendly food which must be added to your diet:

Blueberries and cranberries: Rich in antioxidants named anthocyanins, both blueberries and cranberries are a storehouse of health benefits that can increase your immune cell response and antioxidant enzymes, thereby, keeping your liver healthy, according to the World Journal of Gastroenterology.

Grape: A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology showed that grapes help lower inflammation, prevent damage and increase antioxidant levels in the liver. Grapes are also beneficial because of the presence of a plant compound like resveratrol.

Beetroot juice: Beetroot juice contains nitrates and antioxidants called betalains which help in reducing inflammation in the liver. According to research published in the journal Nutrient, these compounds enrich natural detoxification enzymes.

Fatty fish: Fishes rich in omega-3 fatty acids – salmon, mackerel, sardines – help reducing inflammation. According to a study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology, omega-3 fatty acids help prevent the accumulation of fat in the liver, keep enzyme levels normal, fight inflammation and improve insulin resistance.

inflammation in the liver. According to research published in the journal Nutrient, these compounds enrich natural detoxification enzymes.If timely care is not taken, then liver diseases can be caused by hepatitis A, B, C, alcohol, and drugs. Most importantly, viral hepatitis appears due to consumption of contaminated food and water, unsafe sexual practices and drug abuse can lead to Liver Cirrhosis and Liver Cancer.

Meanwhile, as per the World Health Organisation (WHO), liver diseases are the 10th most common cause of death in India.

Why is a healthy liver important for the human body?

1. - Fight's infections and illness

2. - Controls the blood sugar and cholesterol levels

3. - Removes toxic substances from the body

4. - Releases bile and aids in digestion

5. - Breaks down medications and drugs, including alcohol

Nine easy ways to keep your liver healthy:

1. - Maintain a healthy diet

2. - Eat foods like grains, protein, dairy products, fruits, vegetables, and fats and also have a lot of fibres such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole-grain bread, rice, and cereals

3. - During blood transfusion ensure a safe process to avoid contracting hepatitis A, B, C

4. - Whenever you go to the washroom, ensure to wash your hands

5. - Take time out and exercise regularly

6. - Limit or QUIT alcohol consumption, it will help in preventing the liver damage

7. - Also, say no to drugs and smoking

8. - Practice safe sex and use condoms

9. - Keep a check on your weight, being overweight or obese can lead to serious liver conditions

Talk to your Doctor reg Immunizations against Hepatitis A & B etc..

Have good and Healthy Life...