Health Campaign
Prevent. Treat. Thrive: Hepatitis B & C Awareness for a Better Future
Our Hepatitis B & C Health Campaign aims to promote awareness about the preventability and treatability of hepatitis B & C. By organizing community-based education and screening events, Chariaid International aims to raise awareness, encourage testing, vaccination, and linkage to care for hepatitis B & C, with a particular emphasis on high-risk communities.
Some Hepatitis B & C Facts to Know
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) that can be life-threatening. If left untreated, chronic hepatitis B can progressively damage the liver over a long period, raising the risk of severe conditions such as cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and liver cancer. In fact, globally, hepatitis B is the primary cause of liver cancer and ranks second only to tobacco as a contributor to human cancer. In Cameroon and other regions, communities are disproportionately affected by hepatitis B.
What is Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C, a viral infection that impacts the liver, can result in liver inflammation and trigger the immune system to attack healthy liver cells. It can be transmitted through blood-to-blood contact or when the blood of an individual with hepatitis C comes into contact with another person’s blood.
What are their symptoms?
Hepatitis B & C viruses frequently do not exhibit noticeable symptoms until the liver disease has progressed to an advanced stage, resulting in as many as two-thirds of infected individuals being unaware of their status. This is why hepatitis B & C are often called “silent” diseases. In cases where symptoms do arise, they may include but are not limited to the following:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin)
- Dark urine
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
Get Tested
A straightforward blood test can diagnose hepatitis B & C, but surprisingly, up to two-thirds of Cameroonians may be unaware of their infection status. Requesting a blood test is the initial step toward preventing and treating hepatitis B & C.
How is Hepatitis transmitted?
Hepatitis B & C are viral infections transmitted through infected blood and bodily fluids. This can happen through unprotected sexual contact, contaminated needles or blood (from injecting drugs, tattooing, or improper sterilization of medical or dental equipment), sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes, or from an infected mother to her newborn. It’s important to note that hepatitis B & C are NOT transmitted through casual contact, such as sharing food, water, or utensils, or through hugging, kissing, hand-holding, coughing, or sneezing.
Protection for the Cure
Get immunized: If your blood test for hepatitis B & C is negative, a safe and efficient vaccine can offer lifelong protection against the virus. It is recommended that all newborns receive the hepatitis B & C vaccine at birth.
Get medical care: If you test positive for hepatitis B & C, seeking care from a healthcare provider knowledgeable about these conditions is crucial. Regular monitoring of liver health and discussing treatment options with your healthcare provider may be necessary, depending on your circumstances.
Our Approach
In implementing development projects, it is essential to incorporate local voices and perspectives into the process. Involving the expertise of community members is a vital component for the success of any development initiative.
