This episode focuses on hepatitis in the lead-up to World Hepatitis Day (July 28). It features two guests:
Dr. Enrique Carrera, a gastroenterologist and hepatologist from Ecuador.
Antonio Oñate, a hepatitis C survivor and activist from Mexico.
Medical Perspective – Dr. Enrique Carrera
What is Hepatitis? Hepatitis refers to liver inflammation, often caused by viral infections (types A–E).
Prevalence & Severity: Hepatitis B and C are the most common and dangerous due to their silent, asymptomatic nature. Many people are unaware they are infected until complications arise.
Health Consequences: Chronic hepatitis B or C can lead to liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, or the need for a transplant.
Symptoms & Detection: Fatigue is a common but non-specific symptom. Routine blood tests (liver enzyme levels) are key for early detection.
High-Risk Groups: Includes people with HIV, those on dialysis, individuals with tattoos or past blood transfusions, and men who have sex with men.
Prevention:
Hepatitis A: Safe water and sanitation, vaccination.
Hepatitis B: Universal vaccination (especially at birth).
Hepatitis C: No vaccine; prevention relies on safe practices and screening.
Treatment Advances:
Hepatitis A: Symptomatic care.
Hepatitis B: Antiviral therapy to control the virus.
Hepatitis C: Curable with modern antiviral drugs (95–97% success rate).
Challenges:
Social stigma around hepatitis.
Need for broader screening and education.
Ensuring access to treatment, especially in low-resource settings.
Goal: Eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.
Patient Perspective – Antonio Oñate
Diagnosis Journey: Diagnosed with hepatitis C in 2002 after abnormal liver tests. Likely contracted it from a blood transfusion in 1985.
Initial Challenges:
Lack of information and support.
High cost of treatment.
Emotional impact of a cold, discouraging diagnosis.
Treatment & Recovery:
Participated in a clinical trial in 2006 and was cured after 48 weeks of treatment.
Lifestyle changes and stress management helped improve his liver health even before treatment.
Advocacy & Awareness:
Became an activist to raise awareness and fight stigma.
Emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and patient education.
Advice to Others:
Don’t lose hope.
Seek accurate information and support.
Be honest with healthcare providers.
“Hope is not a strategy, but it fuels the strategy.”
📢 Final Message
Hepatitis is preventable, treatable, and in many cases, curable. Early testing, vaccination, and access to treatment are essential. Join the global effort to eliminate hepatitis by 2030.
