Hepatitis B | Hepatitis Awareness Challenge

_{Hello Everyone.
This is @missyleo
From Nigeria}

I'm excited to participate in this contest organized by @ahsansharif, thanks for bringing up this wonderful and educative topic our way. Hepatitis B is a global health issue that has tragically cut short countless lives, preventing individuals from achieving their long-term goals. However, with timely detection, many people can survive this infection and manage its impact.

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Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is primarily spread through contact with infected blood, as well as from mother to child during childbirth. The virus causes inflammation in the liver, leading to various liver problems, including liver cancer. If left untreated, Hepatitis B can lead to liver damage, impaired liver function, and blood purification issues, ultimately affecting overall health and well-being.

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The common symptoms of Hepatitis B include jaundice, which is characterized by the yellowing of the skin and eyes. Additional symptoms may include abdominal pain, dizziness, stomach pain, loss of appetite, and nausea. However, in some cases, Hepatitis B can be asymptomatic for an extended period, only to manifest later. Other possible symptoms include fatigue, liver tenderness, and a general feeling of being unwell.

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Hepatitis B can be transmitted through various means, including:

• Contact with infected blood, such as through sharing needles or syringes.

• Unprotected sex, as the virus can be present in semen and other bodily fluids.

• Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth.

• Unnecessary physical contact with an infected person, like sharing personal items.

It's essential to practice safe sex, avoid sharing needles or syringes, and take precautions to prevent exposure to infected blood to reduce the risk of contracting hepatitis B and other infectious diseases.

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To control Hepatitis B, it's crucial to:

• Get vaccinated, especially in the early stages of life, to prevent infection.

• Screen pregnant women for hepatitis B and vaccinate them if necessary, to prevent mother-to-child transmission.

• Use sterile and disposable needles for vaccinations and blood collection to prevent transmission through direct contact with infected blood.

• Practice protective techniques, such as using condoms and gloves, to prevent the spread of the disease.

• Maintain good liver health through regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle.

By taking these preventive measures, we can reduce the risk of hepatitis B transmission and protect ourselves and others from this infectious disease.

In conclusion, Hepatitis B is a serious and potentially life-threatening liver disease. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and transmission modes is key to prevention. Vaccination, safe habits, and a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce infection risk and protect individuals and communities.