Latest news with #HBV
UPI
an hour ago
- Health
- UPI
Most liver cancers are preventable, study says
July 29 (UPI) -- Liver cancer: In most cases, it doesn't have to happen, a new global study finds. Research suggests that 60% of cases of this often deadly disease are preventable by avoiding or treating big risk factors. Those risk factors include viral hepatitis infection, alcohol misuse or a dangerous, obesity-linked buildup of fat in the liver. The finding highlights "a huge opportunity for countries to target these risk factors, prevent cases of liver cancer and save lives," said study first author Dr. Stephen Chan of the Chinese University of Hong Kong. His team issued its findings Monday in a special report on liver cancer published by The Lancet. As Chan's team notes, liver malignancies rank as the sixth most common cancer worldwide and the third-leading cause of cancer deaths. Some countries are being hit much harder than others: China, in particular, is burdened with more than 40% of the world's liver cancer cases, largely due to widespread hepatitis B illness. Without further intervention, cases of liver cancer are expected to nearly double globally by 2050 to more than 1.5 million cases annually, the report found. When cancer affects the body's blood-cleansing organ, it can be very difficult to treat. "It is one of the most challenging cancers to treat, with five-year survival rates ranging from approximately 5% to 30%," noted report co-author Dr. Jian Zhou of Fudan University in China. "We risk seeing close to a doubling of cases and deaths from liver cancer over the next quarter of a century without urgent action to reverse this trend." Many cases of liver cancer can be avoided. One preventable cause is metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, or MASLD -- a slow, steady buildup of fat within the liver, often tied to obesity. Up to a third of people worldwide have some level of MASLD, according to the researchers, and as obesity rates rise, cases of the condition are expected to follow suit. By 2040, it is projected that 55% of Americans will have MASLD, upping their odds for liver cancer, the report's authors said. "Liver cancer was once thought to occur mainly in patients with viral hepatitis or alcohol-related liver disease," noted report co-author Dr. Hashem El-Serag of Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. "However, today rising rates of obesity are an increasing risk factor for liver cancer, primarily due to the increase in cases of excess fat around the liver." On the other hand, inroads made against viral hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) mean their impact on liver cancer rates are waning. The authors note in a journal news release that "the proportion of liver cancer cases linked to HBV is expected to decrease from 39% in 2022 to 37% in 2050, while HCV-related cases are projected to drop from 29% to 26% over the same period." Better efforts to vaccinate against hepatitis B and screen for (and treat) hepatitis C could drive down liver cancer rates even further, the team said. Diagnosing and treating MASLD would also help. "One approach to identify patients at high risk of liver cancer would be to introduce screening for liver damage into routine healthcare practice for patients at high risk of MASLD, such as individuals living with obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease," El-Serag said in the news release. Better advocacy around healthy diets and regular exercise can also help, he added. Even cutting liver cancer cases by 2% to 5% per year could mean that 9 million to 17 million new cases of liver cancer could be prevented worldwide by 2050. That translates to up to 15 million lives saved, the report's authors said. More information Find out more about MASLD and liver cancer at the Fatty Liver Alliance. Copyright © 2025 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
CTV News
3 hours ago
- Health
- CTV News
Patients of Montreal doctor at risk of exposure to blood-borne infections
Patients of Dr. Adi Yoskovitch, a specialist in otolaryngology (ENT) and cervicofacial surgery, are being asked to undergo testing for potential exposure to blood-borne infections. The alert comes after an investigation by the Sous ministériat de prévention et de santé publique. Patients who had appointments with Yoskovitch dating back to 2002 for either an endoscopy procedure or cervicofacial surgery may be at 'low to very low risk,' according to the government, of being infected by a blood-borne infection such as hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV) or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The warning is being issued as a precautionary measure after the National Public Health Director sent a directive to Santé Québec asking that patients undergo preventive screening. Who is affected The alert is for anyone who underwent an ENT endoscopy examination that included a flexible tube with a camera and light or cervicofacial surgery performed by Yoskovitch since 2002. Most of the procedures were carried out in private practices in the Laval or Montreal areas. Additionally, anyone who underwent an endoscopy in a public institution with Yoskovitch should be aware of the warning. Those who have already been tested for hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV six months after undergoing a procedure with Yoskovitch are not obliged to partake in further screenings. Some of the practice locations reported to the Collège des médecins du Québec by Yoskovitch include: Laval Chomedey Medical (July 7, 2010 to Aug. 25, 2011) Dr. Adi Yoskovitch Clinic (March 27, 2023 to present) La Clinique 440 (Feb. 15, 2021 to July 18, 2024) Chomedey Polyclinic (Nov. 6, 2009 to July 7, 2010) Fabreville Polyclinic (June 2, 2009 to March 26, 2023) Montreal Cavendish Health Centre in Côte Saint-Luc (July 8, 2004 to June 1, 2009 and Nov. 6, 2009 to July 7, 2010) Cavendish Medical (July 7, 2010 to Aug. 25, 2011) Nazareth Medical Centre in LaSalle (July 7, 2010 to Aug. 25, 2011 and June 16, 2014 to June 16, 2017) Dollar Medical Centre in Dollard-des-Ormeaux (Nov. 6, 2009 to Aug. 25, 2011 and July 7, 2010 to Aug. 25, 2011) GMF Santé Kildare (June 16, 2014 to May 16, 2018) Fleury Hospital (Nov. 6, 2009 to Aug. 25, 2011) Kildare Medical Centre (Nov. 6, 2009 to July 7, 2010 and June 16, 2014 to July 18, 2024) Maimonides Hospital (Nov. 6, 2009 to July 7, 2010) Nazareth Health Centre (Nov. 6, 2009 to July 7, 2010) PermaLaser (Nov. 5, 2009 to Aug. 25, 2011 and May 16, 2018 to present) Polyclinique Dumarche (June 16, 2014 to July 18, 2024) Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact Info-Santé at 811. How to get screened Those affected by the alert can make an appointment on Clic Santé or by calling 1 877 644 4545. A nurse will assess your eligibility for screening, which involves providing a blood sample and coordinating medical care if the result is abnormal. Special protective measures are not necessary while waiting for an appointment.
India Today
7 hours ago
- Health
- India Today
How to put an end to Hepatitis B
(NOTE: This article was originally published in the India Today issue dated August 4, 2025)Every 30 seconds, globally, someone dies from hepatitis-related liver infections—amounting to 1.3 million deaths annually as per WHO 2024 estimates. The Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) alone contributes to nearly 900,000 of these deaths, mostly due to cirrhosis and liver cancer. That's more than malaria, and approaching tuberculosis levels. The virus is carried by an estimated 29 million Indians—the second-highest number globally. And yet, despite having a protective vaccine and effective antivirals for over three decades, we have failed to eliminate it. Why?advertisementThe painful truth: doctors have failed to engage society. We treated HBV as a medical issue, not a societal one like COVID-19, HIV or tuberculosis. For most people, the infection lasts less than six months. For others, it can get chronic and seriously damage the liver. Shockingly, less than 10 per cent of infected individuals are diagnosed; stigma around sexual transmission of the virus has led to under 5 per cent receiving treatment. This ignorance is far from bliss. The HBV can spread through blood, semen, saliva and other bodily fluids, as well as maternally. But the infected are not at the real case of 67-year-old Dr D. Basu (name changed) from Hubli. A CT scan for mild abdominal discomfort revealed a 5 cm liver cancer. He had tested HBV-positive 35 years ago, but never followed up or took treatment. He even hid the diagnosis from his family. When we treated his cancer, his brother and 37-year-old daughter Kalyani also tested positive, likely due to maternal transmission and later sexual or vertical transmission. This tragic case underlines some key precautions to follow. Periodic monitoring in the HBV-infected is a must—one in 10 of those infected develop cirrhosis or cancer. Patients undergo repeated testing but get no treatment as current guidelines are restrictive, excluding nearly 60 per cent from treatment. Patients live with anxiety, fear and stigma. We must move from treating a select few to treating all HBV-positives. One pill, like tenofovir, taken daily can suppress the virus lifelong, halt transmission and prevent Dr Basu's daughter, could have been protected with a birth dose. She was not given HBV vaccination at birth. India's birth-dose coverage is just 63 per cent. Despite being one of the cheapest vaccines and India being a major vaccine producer, the HBV vaccine is scarcely available in private markets here and public awareness is dismal. Only 4.4 per cent of Delhi's adults are fully vaccinated. Are you? Sadly, nearly one-third of health professionals aren't either. Every Indian child and adult should know: the HBV vaccine is safe, effective and for taught us the power of self-testing. All close contacts of the HBV-infected must be screened. Enact anti-discrimination laws in education, workplaces and healthcare. We need HBV kits to enable one-stop testing and treatment. At least 80 per cent of diagnosed patients must be linked to free, accessible treatment. Integrating HBV services with programmes for prenatal care, non-communicable diseases, HIV and tuberculosis is essential. We must integrate hepatitis testing into routine healthcare check-ups and general population-based screening. Pregnant women should be screened for both HBV and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)—the latter spreads only through blood contact and affects 5.5 million launched the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program (NVHCP) on July 28, 2018—one of the world's largest campaigns aiming to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030. It offers free diagnosis and treatment for HBV and HCV. While impressive work on screening has been done, the treatment uptake remains low. We need a massive awareness drive and a movement for public around 3,500 global hepatitis deaths daily—11 per cent from India—the crisis demands urgency. Every avoidable death is a call to act. Each preventable infection highlights our collective failure, and an opportunity to act. We need a society-wide approach, powered by political will, scientific leadership and strong community engagement. Let us break it down. No shame. No blame. Just a cure.—The author is Professor of Eminence, Chancellor, ILBS UniversitySubscribe to India Today Magazine- EndsTrending Reel
News18
10 hours ago
- Health
- News18
Reducing Risk Of Liver Cancer: A Call To Act On World Hepatitis Day
Last Updated: Let us understand the connection between hepatitis and liver cancer and what we can do to reduce the risk Every year, World Hepatitis Day, observed on July 28, brings global attention to one of the most pressing public health challenges — viral hepatitis, which affects over 350 million people worldwide. Among its many consequences, one of the gravest is liver cancer, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which often arises silently in the backdrop of chronic hepatitis B or C infections. On this important day, let us understand the connection between hepatitis and liver cancer and what we can do to reduce the risk. Understanding the link Chronic infection with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the leading cause of liver cancer globally. These viruses can silently inflame the liver for years, gradually leading to cirrhosis, genetic mutations, and ultimately cancer. According to WHO, up to 80% of liver cancer cases can be attributed to viral hepatitis. Simple blood tests (HBsAg for HBV, Anti-HCV for HCV) can identify carriers. Liver function tests and ultrasound help in early cancer detection. HBV: Long-term use of drugs like tenofovir or entecavir reduces viral replication and progression to cirrhosis or cancer. HCV: Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) offer 95% cure rates, reducing the risk of liver cancer even in patients with advanced fibrosis. Avoid alcohol and toxins Chronic alcohol use and exposure to aflatoxins (from contaminated grains) synergize with hepatitis to worsen liver injury. Limiting or eliminating alcohol, ensuring food safety, and avoiding unnecessary herbal or over-the-counter medications that affect the liver are critical. Control of metabolic risk factors Conditions like diabetes, obesity, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are rising globally and may compound liver damage in viral hepatitis patients. Lifestyle changes — healthy diet, regular exercise, and glucose control — are essential. Regular surveillance in high-risk groups Individuals with chronic HBV or HCV, or with liver cirrhosis, should undergo regular ultrasound and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) testing every 6 months. Early detection of HCC dramatically improves survival. A shared responsibility Preventing liver cancer is not just the responsibility of doctors or patients — it is a collective public health mission. Governments, communities, healthcare systems, and individuals must unite to: Improve awareness about viral hepatitis. Increase access to vaccination and testing. Eliminate the stigma around hepatitis. Expand availability of affordable treatment. Conclusion Liver cancer is largely preventable. On this World Hepatitis Day, let us commit to educate, vaccinate, test, and treat. With informed action today, we can ensure a future where hepatitis-related liver cancer becomes a rarity, not a global burden. Let's act now — for liver, lives, and for a hepatitis-free world. Dr Madhu Sasidharan is Senior Consultant, Department of Gastroenterology, KIMSHEALTH, Thiruvananthapuram. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18's views. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
11 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
Hepatitis services must be scaled up, included in essential health packages: WHO official
New Delhi: Hepatitis testing and treatment services must be scaled up and decentralised to primary care, and services related to the infection should be embedded within essential health packages, Dr Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge of WHO South-East Asia, said on Monday. Speaking on World Hepatitis Day , which is observed on July 28 every year, Boehme said hepatitis must prioritise responses with maternal and child health, among others, and work towards reducing the toll of liver cancer due to hepatitis B and hepatitis C . "We have the tools to prevent these infections: safe and effective hepatitis B vaccines, affordable diagnostics, highly effective hepatitis B medicines, and the game-changing hepatitis C direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medicines that cure the infection," she said. "However, problems persist with the complexity and fragmentation in service delivery, lack of services at primary healthcare clinics, poor uptake of services, out-of-pocket expenses, limited awareness, and stigma," Boehme added. World Hepatitis Day raises awareness of viral hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver that causes severe liver disease and liver cancer. It is observed on the birthday of Nobel Prize-winning scientist Dr Baruch Blumberg, who discovered the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and developed a diagnostic test and vaccine for the virus. This year, the theme 'Hepatitis: Let's Break It Down' calls for urgent action to dismantle the financial, social and systemic barriers, including the stigma attached to the infection, that stand in the way of hepatitis elimination and liver cancer prevention . Boehme said, "In our WHO South-East Asia region, viral hepatitis continues to cause needless suffering, silently leading to liver disease, cancer, and hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths each year." Across the region, an estimated 61 million people live with hepatitis B, and 9 million with hepatitis C. "Our region bears one of the highest burdens of chronic viral hepatitis globally, yet most people living with the disease remain undiagnosed and untreated," she said. She said every year, over 2,60,000 lives are lost, many due to preventable complications of hepatitis and one of the most devastating outcomes is liver cancer, because of untreated hepatitis B and C infections. "With limited access to early diagnosis and treatment, most liver cancer cases in our region are detected late, when curative options are no longer viable," Boehme said. She said hepatitis testing and treatment services must be "scaled up, decentralised to primary care", and guidelines simplified, to reduce the toll of liver cancer due to hepatitis B and C. "We must embed hepatitis services within essential health packages, leverage primary health care platforms, and align responses with maternal and child health, HIV, STIs, TB, non-communicable diseases, blood safety, infection prevention and control, occupational health and universal health coverage efforts. "We have to prioritise hepatitis B birth-dose and completion of the vaccination schedule, integrated safe motherhood services, harm reduction services, and community-based outreach to close the equity gap," she said. Boehme said progress was possible and countries across our region are innovating, including adopting simplified testing and treatment service models, integrating hepatitis as part of essential services and under social health insurance coverage. "These efforts need to be scaled and sustained with strong political will and investment. Together, let's break it down by removing the complexity, ending the silence, and delivering on our promise to eliminate hepatitis by 2030," she said.
