हेपेटाइटिस बी और सी: अवलोकन

Hepatitis B and C are two distinct viral infections that affect the liver, causing a range of liver-related diseases. Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through exposure to infected blood and other bodily fluids. It can be acute or chronic, with chronic infections posing a higher risk of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.Hepatitis C is caused by the hepatitis C virus, typically transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. Chronic HCV infection can also lead to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. Both HBV and HCV can be asymptomatic or present with similar symptoms, including jaundice, fatigue, and abdominal discomfort. HBV can be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth, through sexual contact, and sharing needles. HCV is primarily spread through sharing needles, contaminated medical equipment, or in rare cases, sexual contact. Both diseases are global health concerns. HBV is more common in regions like Asia and Africa, while HCV is more prevalent in some parts of the United States and Europe. There is an effective vaccine for HBV that has significantly reduced new infections. No vaccine for HCV exists, but direct-acting antiviral drugs have revolutionized HCV treatment. Chronic hepatitis B can be managed with antiviral medications, while hepatitis C can be cured with a combination of antiviral drugs.