Health experts have warned that viral hepatitis remains a major but often silent public health threat in Nigeria, with many infections progressing for years without obvious symptoms before causing cirrhosis or liver cancer. They have renewed calls for wider screening, increased awareness, vaccination and improved access to treatment.
According to the World Health Organisation, viral hepatitis causes about 1.3 million deaths globally each year, mainly from liver cirrhosis and cancer. More than 20 million Nigerians are estimated to be living with hepatitis B and C, many unaware of their status.
Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist, Dr Adaeze Oreh, said simple blood tests can detect the infections early, while hepatitis B vaccination, including a birth dose within 24 hours, can help prevent mother-to-child transmission.
Experts agreed that hepatitis can be prevented and, in many cases, effectively treated when detected early. They urged Nigerians to avoid stigma and misconceptions, practise safe infection-prevention measures, insist on screened blood, avoid sharing unsterilised sharp objects and seek routine testing.
Experts also called for sustained government investment in vaccination, diagnosis and treatment to help Nigeria contribute to the global goal of eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.
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