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Hypertension occurs when the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured using two numbers: systolic pressure (the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats) and diastolic pressure (the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats). A blood pressure reading of 120/80 mmHg is considered normal, while readings consistently above this range may indicate hypertension.

Causes and Risk Factors

Risk factors for hypertension include:

1. Unhealthy Diet: Consuming high amounts of sodium, saturated fats, and cholesterol can contribute to the risk of developing hypertension.
2. Lack of Physical Activity: Sedentary lifestyles and lack of regular exercise are associated with higher blood pressure levels.
3. Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of hypertension.
4. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Tobacco use and excessive alcohol intake can elevate blood pressure.
5. Stress: Chronic stress can temporarily raise blood pressure levels, potentially leading to long-term hypertension.
6. Age and Family History: Hypertension becomes more common with age, and individuals with a family history of hypertension are at higher risk.

Symptoms and Complications

 Typically symptoms are not noticeable until they reach advanced stages or cause severe complications. However, some people may experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and chest pain in severe cases. If left untreated, hypertension can lead to various complications, including:

1. Heart Disease: Hypertension can damage the arteries and increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.
2. Kidney Disease: Chronic hypertension can impair kidney function and lead to kidney failure.
3. Eye Damage: High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision problems and even blindness.
4. Brain Health: Hypertension is a major risk factor for stroke and can also contribute to cognitive decline and dementia.

Prevention and Treatment

While hypertension cannot always be prevented, there are several lifestyle modifications and treatment options available to manage the condition and reduce the risk of complications:

1. Healthy Diet: Adopting a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting sodium, saturated fats, and processed foods can help lower blood pressure.
2. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, can help lower blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health.
3. Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can reduce the risk of hypertension.
4. Stress Management: Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help lower stress levels and reduce blood pressure.
5. Medications: In cases of moderate to severe hypertension, medications such as diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers may be prescribed to lower blood pressure.

Conclusion

Hypertension requires ongoing management and treatment. By making healthy lifestyle choices, staying physically active, and seeking regular medical care, individuals can effectively control their blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications associated with hypertension. Early detection, intervention, and adherence to treatment plans are crucial in preventing the potentially devastating effects of this silent killer.

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You conquer your to-do list, emails vanish at your touch, deadlines tremble before you. You’re truly a productive superhero! But you need to take a second to ask yourself if those late nights are worth it?

We’ve all been there. Fueled by ambition (and maybe a bit too much coffee (emoji)), we push through exhaustion to get things done. But here’s the thing: chronic sleep deprivation is a productivity killer, not a booster.

Think about it: When you’re running on just a few hours of sleep, you’re more likely to miss details, make mistakes, and end up needing even more time to fix them. Not exactly the recipe for workplace success.

So, how do we avoid burnout and become the sharpest versions of ourselves?

    1. Prioritise Sleep: It’s not a Luxury, It’s a necessity

Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep every night. Create a relaxing bedtime routine that signals to your body it’s time to wind down. Take a warm bath, read a book (hard copy), or listen to calming music.

   2. Schedule Breaks: Your brain needs rest

Step away from the screen throughout the day. Get up, move around, grab a healthy snack, or chat with a colleague. Even a short break can refresh your mind and boost your focus.

   3. Delegate and Disconnect

Don’t be afraid to ask for help or politely decline extra work if you’re overloaded. A supportive team will understand, and delegating tasks can free up your time and energy for what truly matters.

   4. Embrace the Sunshine: Natural Light is Your Friend

Get some natural light exposure during the day. Open the blinds, take a walk outside – sunlight helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle and improves mood.

   5. Power Down Before Bed: Screens are the Enemy of Sleep

Avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light emitted by electronic devices disrupts sleep patterns. You should also turn off the light in your room to help get quality sleep. 

   6. Track Your Sleep: Knowledge is Power

There are many apps that can track your sleep patterns and energy levels. Seeing the clear impact of sleep deprivation on your well-being can be a powerful motivator to change your habits.

As Dale Carnegie said, “Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise. Make sure you take control of your health today. Prioritize sleep and watch your productivity increase!

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Health is defined as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

• Health Education – You have the right to quality information about factors affecting your health, regardless of your location. It’s crucial to verify the credibility of health information sources, as not all sources are reliable. Additionally, refrain from making significant health decisions, such as altering or discontinuing treatment, without consulting your healthcare provider.

• Safe Drinking Water– You have the right to access safe drinking water, essential for everyday activities like drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene. Safe drinking water is defined as water that poses no significant health risks over a person’s lifetime. It enables proper hygiene practices, crucial for preventing various diseases including diarrhoea, cholera, dysentery, typhoid, and polio, which collectively cause numerous deaths annually.

• Air Quality- You have the right to Clean Air. Improved air quality contributes to enhanced health outcomes. Studies indicate that air pollution diminishes worker productivity across various professions and is linked to oxidative stress and inflammation in human cells, potentially leading to chronic diseases and cancer. Additionally, inadequate indoor air quality can result in respiratory ailments, cardiovascular issues, and decreased mental productivity. To enhance air quality, prioritise sufficient ventilation, maintain cleanliness, opt for eco-friendly cleaning supplies, utilise air purifiers, prohibit indoor smoking, minimise chemical pollutants, install kitchen exhaust fans, and incorporate indoor plants. 

• Adequate Nutrition– You have the right to adequate and Optimal nutrition. Consuming a well-balanced diet not only prevents chronic health issues but also enhances immune function. Nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables, containing selenium, iron, zinc, protein, and vitamins C and D, bolster the growth and function of immune cells. Optimal nutrition additionally fosters strong muscles and bones, elevates mood, and enhances energy levels. A balanced diet comprising all six food groups and sufficient hydration promotes physical vigour, mental acuity, and emotional well-being.

• Healthy work environment– You have the right to a Healthy Work Environment. The World Health Organisation defines a healthy work environment as one that not only lacks harmful conditions but also promotes health. Such environments are crucial for the physical and mental well-being of employees, leading to increased productivity, job satisfaction, and retention rates. Employees who feel valued and supported are more likely to be engaged and committed. Prioritising a healthy work environment involves promoting work-life balance, offering professional development opportunities, cultivating a positive work culture, and ensuring physical safety. By doing so, employers can enhance employee well-being, productivity, and organisational success.

The WHO Council on the Economics of Health for All found that despite over 140 countries recognising health as a fundamental human right, many fail to enforce laws ensuring access to healthcare. Consequently, over 4.5 billion people lack full coverage of essential health services. To address this, the theme for World Health Day 2024 is ‘My health, my right’.

#My Health My Right World Health Day 2024.

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• You can save money on health care expenses by paying a fixed monthly or annual premium that covers most of your medical needs.
• Variety of plans that suit your budget and needs, ranging from basic to comprehensive coverage.
• Access to over 1,000 hospitals and health partners across Nigeria through your HMO’s network.
• Additional benefits such as telemedicine, pharmacy delivery, gym access, and health tips through your HMO’s mobile app or website.
• Customer support and feedback from your HMO’s dedicated team of professionals.

Which HMO should you choose in Abuja?

There are many HMOs in Abuja that offer different plans and services for their customers but choosing an HMO in Abuja like Leadway Health provides you with customer-focused and value-based health insurance packages and services that leverage on digital technology, artificial intelligence, and a wealth of HMO experience. At Leadway Health, we work together with you to prevent and manage health conditions and offer exclusive benefits that meet your needs

Finding Healthcare Providers in Abuja

Leadway Health is one of the leading health insurance providers in Nigeria, and it has wde network of healthcare providers in Abuja. If you are a Leadway Health customer in Abuja, you can easily find a healthcare provider that is in-network with your plan.

To find a provider near you in Abuja, you can use the Find A Provider feature on the Leadway Health website or app. You can select your plan, service, and location, and search for the nearest or most suitable provider for your needs. You can also view the details of each provider, such as address, phone number, opening hours, and ratings.

There are a few different ways to find Leadway Health providers in Abuja:

1. Log into your Leadway Health online account or mobile app: You can search for healthcare providers by location, specialty, and other criteria. You can also see which healthcare providers are in-network with your health insurance plan.
2. Call Leadway Health customer service: Customer service representatives can help you find a healthcare provider in Abuja that is in-network with your plan.
3. Use the Leadway Health provider directory: The Leadway Health provider directory lists all of the healthcare providers in Abuja that are in-network with the company’s plans.

Here are a few of the best Leadway Health providers in Abuja:

• Cedarcrest Hospital: Cedarcrest Hospital is a private hospital that offers a wide range of medical services, including inpatient and outpatient care, surgery, and diagnostic testing.
• Zankli Medical Centre: Zankli Medical Centre is a private medical center that offers a wide range of medical services, including general practice, specialist care, and preventive care.
• Medical Care Clinic: Medical Care Clinic is a private medical clinic that offers a wide range of medical services, including general practice, specialist care, and preventive care.
• Abuja Clinics: Abuja Clinics is a private medical clinic that offers a wide range of medical services, including general practice, specialist care, and preventive care.
• LifeSpring Hospital: LifeSpring Hospital is a private hospital that offers a wide range of medical services, including inpatient and outpatient care, surgery, and diagnostic testing.

Additional Tips

If you are yet to be registered with a health insurance company and looking for an HMO in Abuja, here are some additional tips for finding the right HMO in Abuja:

1. Consider your location: Where in Abuja do you live or work? It is important to find a health insurance company that is convenient for you to get to.
2. Think about your needs: What type of medical care do you need? Do you need a general practitioner or a specialist? Do you need a hospital or a clinic?
3. Read online reviews: Once you have found a potential HMO, read online reviews to see what other patients have said about their experiences.
4. Contact us directly: If you are interested in quality and convenient health care plans, contact us directly to learn more about our available HMO plans and to see if they align with your needs.

By following these tips, you can easily find an HMO in Abuja that is right for you. Whether you are an individual, a family member, a company employee, or a senior citizen, you can find a plan that suits your budget and needs. You can also enjoy access to quality care from any of our network of healthcare providers in Abuja or anywhere in Nigeria.

The post HMO in Abuja: Your guide to finding Leadway Health providers in Abuja appeared first on Leadway Health.

That is why you need a reliable and trustworthy health maintenance organisation (HMO) that can help you access the best healthcare providers in Lagos. By joining an HMO in Lagos, you can enjoy benefits such as lower premiums, co-payments, and deductibles, as well as preventive care, wellness programs, and emergency care.

However, not all HMOs in Lagos are created equal. Some may have limited networks, poor customer service, hidden fees, or low-quality care. Therefore, you need to do your research and compare different HMO companies in Lagos before choosing one that suits your needs and preferences.

How to find the best HMO in Lagos

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an HMO in Lagos is the quality and availability of its network of providers. You want to make sure that the HMO has a wide range of providers that can cater to your health needs, such as general practitioners, specialists, dentists, optometrists, physiotherapists, and more. You also want to ensure that the providers are located near your home or workplace, so that you can access them easily and conveniently.

To find the best HMO in Lagos, you can use the following methods:

1. Ask for recommendations: You can ask your friends, family, colleagues, or neighbours for their opinions and experiences with different providers and HMOs. They may be able to give you honest feedback and useful tips on how to choose the best option for you.
2. Use online platforms: You can use online platforms such as websites, apps, blogs, forums, or social media to search for and compare different providers and HMOs in Lagos. You can also read reviews, ratings, testimonials, and comments from other users who have used their services.
3. Visit the providers: You can visit the providers’ facilities in person to check their credentials, equipment, hygiene, staff, and services. You can also ask them questions about their qualifications, experience, specialties, fees, availability, and policies. You can also request for a consultation or a trial session to see if you are comfortable with them.
4. Compare different plans: You can compare different plans offered by different HMOs based on their features and benefits. You can use online tools such as calculators, comparison tables, or charts to help you with this process. You can also request for quotes or proposals from different HMOs to see how much they charge for their plans.
5. Check the reputation: You can check the reputation of the HMO by looking at its accreditation, registration, certification, or awards from relevant authorities or organisations. You can also look at its customer service, complaint resolution, feedback mechanism, or satisfaction survey to see how it treats its members.

Choosing Leadway Health as Your HMO in Lagos

If you are looking for an HMO that offers you all the features and benefits that we have mentioned above, then look no further than Leadway Health. With Leadway Health, you can rest assured that you are getting the best care possible because we are backed by Leadway Assurance Company Limited, one of the leading insurance companies in Nigeria with over 50 years of experience. We also have a team of dedicated and professional staff who are always ready to assist you with any queries or issues. You can reach us through phone, email, chat, or social media.

Enjoy Exclusive Benefits

Leadway Health has partnered with over 1000 providers across Nigeria to offer quality healthcare services to its enrollees. These include hospitals, clinics, laboratories, pharmacies, dental centres, eye clinics, and more. You can easily find a provider near you by using the Leadway Health mobile app or website. You can also book appointments, access telemedicine services, report delays, read health tips, and much more on the app.

We also offer some exclusive benefits that make us stand out from other HMOs in Lagos. For example, if you have a chronic illness, you can get your prescription drugs delivered to your home or office. If you have an acute condition, you can pick up your preferred brand of drugs from partner pharmacies. You can also enjoy access to gyms, nutritional centres, counselling services, and other wellness programs through the Employee Assistance Program. And if you stay healthy all year round, you can get 20% of your annual payment back.

Contact Us Today

So what are you waiting for? Join Leadway Health today and enjoy the benefits of having a reliable and trustworthy HMO in Lagos. You can get started calling our toll-free number 0800-LEADWAY (0800-5323929) or visiting our Lagos Office at 121/123, Funso Williams Avenue, Iponri, Surulere.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn for more updates and information.

The post Your guide to finding the best healthcare providers and HMO in Lagos appeared first on Leadway Health.

What Makes Leadway Health Different from Other HMO Companies in Nigeria?

If you are looking for a reliable and trustworthy health maintenance organization (HMO) in Nigeria, you might want to consider Leadway Health. Here are some of the features and benefits that make Leadway Health different:

1. Comprehensive health insurance packages

Leadway Health offers a variety of health insurance packages that cater to the needs of individuals, families, small and large companies, and senior citizens. Whether you need a basic plan that covers essential health services or a premium plan that covers more advanced and specialized health services, Leadway Health has a package that suits your budget and preferences. Some of the health services that Leadway Health covers include consultations, laboratory tests, radiology, surgeries, dental care, optical care, maternity care, chronic care, emergency care, and more.

2. A Reputation for Excellence

With a wealth of experience and expertise in the industry, Leadway Health has built a reputation for itself as one of the best HMO companies in Nigeria. Leadway Health is known for its commitment to providing affordable, customer-focused, and value-based health insurance solutions.

3. Vast network of providers

Leadway Health has a vast network of over 1000 providers across Nigeria that offer quality healthcare services. These providers include hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, laboratories, diagnostic centers, specialists, and more. You can easily find a provider near you by using the Leadway Health mobile app or website. You can also access the providers’ ratings and reviews to help you make an informed decision.

4. Digital technology and artificial intelligence

Furthermore, Leadway Health leverages digital technology and artificial intelligence to provide innovative and convenient health insurance solutions to its customers. For instance, Leadway Health offers advanced pharmacy benefits delivery of prescription drugs to homes or offices (for people with chronic illnesses) through its partnership with Medsaf, a digital platform that connects pharmacies with safe and affordable medications. Leadway Health also offers access to telemedicine services through its partnership with Tremendoc, a digital platform that connects patients with licensed doctors via chat or video call. These features allow customers to access quality healthcare services without having to visit a physical location.

5. Employee assistance program

Additionally, Leadway Health has an employee assistance program that provides physical and mental wellness programs, counseling services, nutritional centers, gyms, etc. to its corporate customers. This program aims to improve the well-being and productivity of employees by addressing their physical and mental health needs, however, some of the benefits of this program include stress management, work-life balance, financial literacy, career development, etc.

Conclusion

In conclusion, If you are looking for an HMO company in Nigeria that can provide you and your family with the best possible healthcare coverage, then Leadway Health is the right choice for you. Visit www.leadwayhealth.com to learn more about Leadway Health or how to sign up for their health insurance packages or call their customer service at +234 (0) 700 LEADWAY (5323929).

The post Leadway HMO: Making a difference in HMO Companies in Nigeria appeared first on Leadway Health.

Recent policies, coupled with the removal of fuel subsidies and the fluctuating forex market, have ushered in an era of hyperinflation. One major consequence? A whopping 150% spike in medication costs. But here’s the silver lining: Nigeria boasts an array of competent local pharmaceutical manufacturers like Fidson, Emzor, Swiss Pharma, Drugfield, Vita Biotics, Evans, and Chi Pharmaceuticals. They produce not just any medicines, but quality generic medications

Branded vs. Generic: Unravelling the Puzzle

For the uninitiated, here’s a brief breakdown:

• Branded/Innovator Medications: Originally developed by pharmaceutical companies, they come with patent rights. Being first-of-their-kind, they’re marketed under exclusive brand names, often at a higher cost.
• Generic Medications: Essentially bioequivalent to branded medications but are produced without the patent costs. They’re rigorously tested and approved, ensuring the same efficacy, safety, and therapeutic benefits but at a fraction of the price.

Some Key Facts

• Generic medicines have the same active ingredient as brand-name medicines and work in the same way, but may look different and contain different non-active ingredients.
• Generic alternatives are often cheaper than brand-name medicines. This is because the company that produces the medicine did not need to invest money in developing and marketing it.
• Generic medicines may be different from the brand-name version in shape, size, colour, packaging, and ‘inactive ingredients’ that do not contribute to the treatment effect of the medicine.

Why Choose Generic?

• Value for Money: You receive the same therapeutic benefit as branded drugs but at a considerably reduced cost.
• Quality Assurance: Local manufacturers like Emzor and Swiss Pharma have rigorous standards in place. These generics undergo stringent quality checks through regulatory agencies like NAFDAC, to ensure they’re up to par with their branded counterparts
• Supporting the Local Economy: Opting for generics isn’t just a wise health choice but a patriotic one. By doing so, you bolster local industries, creating jobs and enriching our economy.

 Do Generic Medicines Work?

Yes, generic (unbranded) drugs work as well as their branded counterparts, and sometimes even better. The differences in the pharmaceutical makeup of branded and unbranded (generic) drugs are usually insignificant. The power of advertising can never be underestimated. The marketing schemes of pharmaceutical brands over time have led to the perception that branded drugs work better than their generic counterparts.

So, when your doctor prescribes Paracetamol instead of Panadol, or Amlodipine instead of Norvasc; don’t think he/she is giving you a less effective version. They will all arrive at the same destination—to make you feel better.

Branded Medications: The Real Cost

Here’s a perspective. The soaring prices of branded medications don’t just dig deeper into your pockets, but strain our collective resources. As an insurer, our goal is to optimize the allocation of funds, ensuring as many members as possible have access to crucial healthcare services. When funds are expended on high-cost branded meds, it curtails our ability to broaden our reach.

By choosing generics, you play an active role in:

• Stretching Your Naira: Get more value for your money.

• Safeguarding Your Health: Rest assured, you’re not compromising on quality.

• Empowering Nigeria: Fuel our nation’s growth by endorsing local manufacturers.

In Conclusion

Our pledge to you is to continue demystifying healthcare intricacies, ensuring you’re well-informed and poised to make the best decisions for your health and wallet. We’re on this journey together, and together, we shall weather any storm.

Thank you for your trust in us. To a healthier, stronger Nigeria!

Stay well and informed,

Your Dedicated Leadway Healthwise Team

#StretchyournairaSafeguardyourhealthEmpowerNigeria

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The Evolution of Healthcare Delivery:

Gone are the days of long hospital queues and stress when seeking medical attention. Telemedicine has changed the game, connecting patients to top-quality physicians without the need to visit a hospital physically. Leadway Health Insurance embraces this transformation, ensuring that distance is no longer a barrier to accessing quality healthcare.

What is Telemedicine?

Telemedicine typically refers to the practice of providing medical care and health services remotely using telecommunications or digital technology. It provides a means for healthcare professionals to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients without being physically present in the same location. In addition, it utilises audio, video, and other forms of digital communication to facilitate virtual consultations and interactions between healthcare providers and patients.

How Does It Work?

Here’s how it typically works:

• Scheduling and Appointment: Patients request appointments through telemedicine platforms or healthcare provider offices.
• Platform and Technology: Secure video conferencing and access to patient information.
• Virtual Consultation: Patients and healthcare providers connect via video and audio on the telemedicine platform.
• Communication and Assessment: Providers discuss symptoms, and medical history, and evaluate visual cues from the patient.
• Examination and Diagnosis: Providers remotely assess the patient’s condition, prescribe tests, and provide a diagnosis.
• Treatment and Prescription: treatment plans are recommended, medications prescribed, and where necessary, suggestions for lifestyle modifications are offered.
• Follow-up and Care Coordination: Providers schedule follow-up appointments and share electronic prescriptions and documentation.

Redefining Access to Doctors on Call

Telemedicine utilizes digital technology to provide medical care remotely, making it easier than ever to connect with doctors on call. With secure video conferencing and virtual consultations, Leadway Health Insurance ensures you have quick and convenient access to healthcare, regardless of your location. No longer worry about geographical limitations; consult with a doctor in just a few clicks.

Improving Access to Quality Healthcare with Telemedicine

Nigeria faces a significant shortage of doctors, making quality healthcare hard to come by in some areas. Leadway Health’s telemedicine services bridge this gap, making doctors available in different locations, including remote regions. Embrace the ease of accessing higher-quality healthcare with Leadway’s commitment to healthcare technology and telemedicine.

Ensuring Patient Safety and Confidentiality

One of the biggest considerations when thinking of using telemedicine for your healthcare needs is the confidentiality apparatus available to ensure your data is safe. Telemedicine addresses common security concerns by adhering to privacy regulations, using encrypted connections for secure communication, implementing authentication and access control measures, regularly updating systems to address vulnerabilities, obtaining patient consent for data sharing, and promoting device security. These measures ensure the privacy and security of patient information during telemedicine consultations. 

As a healthcare provider, Leadway Health in providing an avenue for telemedicine also has the promise of patient safety and confidentiality when engaging with telemedicine. 

The Future of Telemedicine with Leadway Health Insurance

Leadway Health is at the forefront of innovation in the provision of telemedicine services, ensuring that patients have easy access to qualified doctors who genuinely listen to their concerns. As telemedicine breaks down barriers of distance and time, individuals across Nigeria can now receive quality healthcare remotely. In a world where immediate access to quality healthcare is important, Leadway Health’s telemedicine services ensure you receive the care you deserve.

Take control of your health and choose the HMO that cares by downloading our app:

Download on Playstore

Download on Appstore

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This year, the theme for the World Hepatitis Day is, ‘We are not waiting,’ and in fact, we can no longer wait. We can no longer wait until the symptoms become life-threatening before we begin treatment. 

WHAT IS HEPATITIS? 

Hepatitis simply means inflammation of the liver – in simpler sense, destruction of the liver cells. 

Hepatitis can be caused by a number of factors – infection, alcohol, autoimmunity, drug overdose, or excessive fat. The commonest cause is viral infection, followed by alcohol. These two forms of hepatitis can be prevented and easily treated if noticed on time. Hence, the theme, ‘We are not waiting’. 

Viral Hepatitis is an infection of the liver by one or more of the Hepatitis viruses that leads to liver destruction. The viruses involved are Hepatitis A, B, C, D or E viruses, and they can infect the liver simultaneously. 

Hepatitis A & E – these are both gotten through the faeco-oral route. This means that someone can contract this virus by what they put in their mouth (food), and can share the virus through their infected faeces. They will therefore develop features such as vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, yellowness of the eyes and fever. 

These two viruses do not progress to chronic diseases, meaning that the body either clears it off within 2 to 3 months, or it leads to acute liver failure that requires transplantation. Common food sources include seafood, especially shellfish, if not cooked well. 

Hepatitis B, C & D – these are both gotten through blood and body fluids. Just like HIV, they can be transmitted through blood transfusion, sharing of needles, clippers, blades and other sharps, sexual intercourse or from mother to child.  

Symptoms are similar to Hepatitis A & E; however, they can develop into chronic liver disease (if longer than 6 months), liver failure and even liver cancer. 

Hepatitis D, however, can only infect the liver if there is already a pre-existing Hepatitis B infection. 

ALCOHOLIC HEPATITIS

As the name implies, this is liver injury that occurs due to alcohol intake. The liver is the primary organ that processes alcohol in the body. When alcohol is ingested for a prolonged period of time or taken in an excessive quantity over a short period of time, it can cause liver damage. 

BURDEN OF HEPATITIS 

Of all the viral hepatitis, Hepatitis B and C account for over 97% of all infections. An estimated 354 million people currently live with hepatitis B or C worldwide. 

In Nigeria, there are over 20 million people living with hepatitis B or C or both, and about 80% of those people do not know they have it. 

WHAT CAN BE DONE? 

As this year’s theme dictates, ‘We’re not waiting’. Therefore, we bid you to not wait any longer and to get tested.  

• Hepatitis can easily be detected by blood tests, and this can be done at a laboratory or in a hospital. 
• If detected on time, Hepatitis can then be treated with antiviral drugs. 

Asides early detection, we are also not waiting until you get infected.  

• Viral hepatitis can be prevented with the aid of vaccines.  

• Hepatitis A and B have readily available vaccines but C& E do not. 
• Vaccination for Hepatitis B confers protection for Hepatitis D. 

Lifestyle modifications can also help prevent hepatitis: 

• Alcoholic hepatitis can also be prevented by reducing or totally stopping intake of alcohol. 
• To prevent faeco-oral Hepatitis A and E, good hygiene practices should be done. Ensure you wash your hands before cooking or eating. 
• To prevent blood-borne Hepatitis B, C & D, avoid sharing of sharps objects (needles, blades, clippers). 
• Practice safe sex (use of condoms). 

Dr. Nwachukwu N.O. 

Sources 

• World Hepatitis Day (2023) https://www.worldhepatitisday.org/ 
• World Health Organization (2023) Hepatitis https://www.who.int/health-topics/hepatitis#tab=tab_1 
• World Health Organization (2023) In Nigeria, boosting viral hepatitis awareness and treatment https://www.afro.who.int/countries/nigeria/news/nigeria-boosting-viral-hepatitis-awareness-and-treatment-0#:~:text=The%20country%20has%20more%20than,status%2C%20according%20to%20some%20estimates. 
• Mehta, P. & Reddivari, A.K.R. (2022) Hepatitis. National Library of Medicine https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554549/ 

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