Thailand Intensifies Battle Against Hepatitis

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In response to the World Health Organization's (WHO) ambitious aim to eradicate hepatitis, Thailand is boosting its efforts to tackle this silent health threat. With around 2-3 million people living with hepatitis B and C, the nation is dealing with a significant health problem.

 

The Thai government is advocating an approach that involves "screening by year of birth" to neutralize the stigma that often comes with the disease. Individuals born before 1992 are urged to go for a one-off hepatitis screening. This method is aimed at removing the negative connotation of the process and promoting early detection.

 

Professor Dr. Tawisak Tanwandee, head of the Division of Gastroenterology at Siriraj Hospital, underscored the significance of screening. Dr. Tawisak mentioned the simplicity of screening procedures which involve fingertip blood tests, enabling screenings at different locations like small hospitals and community clinics.

 

The tests are also cost-effective, providing a much more affordable and accessible alternative to common blood tests. The National Health Security Office (NHSO) offers free screenings to eligible Thai citizens utilizing the Paotang application.

 

Despite these measures, the current screening rates are still low. Hence, to improve awareness and outreach, the Ministry of Public Health is encouraging local community healthcare workers to proactively identify and screen susceptible individuals.

 

 

Thailand aims to screen over 90% of its populace and treat more than 80% of those in need, mirroring WHO’s target of eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030. Another crucial goal is to reduce the death rate of chronic hepatitis patients by more than 65%.

 

Hepatitis B and C can bring about severe problems like liver cancer and cirrhosis. Most infected people remain oblivious to their condition as the disease frequently exhibits no symptoms until it has advanced. This hidden characteristic of the illness accentuates the need for early detection and treatment.

 

Thailand has made strides in preventing the transmission of hepatitis B from mother to child through vaccination programs and enhanced healthcare procedures. However, challenges remain in tackling hepatitis B infection among adults, which is often contracted via sexual transmission.

 

Professor Dr. Tawisak is pushing for more screening and early treatment for hepatitis B and broader access to antiviral medicines. He also stresses the need for technological solutions to improve patient compliance with treatment and improve overall care.

 

Thailand, recognizing the damaging effects of hepatitis, remains committed to fortifying its defense against this public health menace. By focusing on screening, treatment, and prevention, the nation hopes to lessen the impact of hepatitis and improve the lives of millions of its citizens.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-07-29

 

 

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[nobodysfriend]

There are very good and cheap treatments against Hepatitis available ... in India .