JULY 28 — On World Hepatitis Day, the Academy of Medicine of Malaysia seeks to raise awareness on this disease.
Viral hepatitis is a communicable disease that can cause serious liver damage and liver cancer. Deaths from viral hepatitis, the majority are due to hepatitis B and C, are rising worldwide compared to the downward trend for the other three most common causes of communicable diseases.
Destigmatisation is an important part of the public health effort in eliminating hepatitis as fear of discrimination and stigma can prevent people from getting tested and treated. Without doubt, Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated digital health solutions. Telehealth is now widely deployed to replace in-person consults. Telemedicine can also be used for training and mentorship of non-specialists and nurses to enable task shifting or role delegation.