World Hepatitis Day: Experts warn of silent progression and stress early diagnosis

On July 28, World Hepatitis Day, health specialists highlighted that hepatitis often advances without symptoms, making early detection crucial for preventing severe liver disease. Internal medicine physician Dr. Özgür Çağraş warned that chronic hepatitis B and C carry significant risks of cirrhosis and liver cancer, and emphasized vaccination, regular screening and good hygiene as key preventive measures.

The World Health Organization estimates roughly 254 million people live with chronic hepatitis B and 50 million with hepatitis C, with about 1.3 million deaths each year from related complications. In Turkey, childhood hepatitis B immunisation programmes have markedly lowered infection rates, though chronic hepatitis B remains a public‑health concern among adults. Experts urged at‑risk groups—including health workers, dialysis patients and frequent blood‑product recipients—to undergo routine testing.

Key symptoms to watch for include prolonged fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain and unexplained weight loss. Prompt medical evaluation of these signs can enable timely treatment and reduce mortality.