Every year on July 28, the world observes World Hepatitis Day, a global reminder that hepatitis is preventable, treatable, and, if detected early, very manageable. Yet, millions of Nigerians are currently living with hepatitis without knowing it.
This year’s theme, “Let’s Break It Down”, calls for urgent action to dismantle the financial, social, and systemic barriers, including stigma, that stand in the way of hepatitis elimination and liver cancer prevention.
It all starts with one essential step: getting tested.
What Is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, most commonly caused by viral infections—hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. In Nigeria, hepatitis B and C are the most common and the most dangerous when left untreated.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Nigeria has one of the highest burdens of Hepatitis B globally. Sadly, most people do not realise they are infected until irreversible liver damage has occurred.
This is why early detection through hepatitis testing is critical.
Why You Should Get Tested for Hepatitis
- Know your status: Whether you test positive or negative, knowing your hepatitis status gives you control over your health and helps you make informed decisions.
- Access early treatment: Hepatitis is easier to manage when caught early. Prompt diagnosis allows you to begin antiviral treatment that slows disease progression and improves long-term outcomes.
- Protect your loved ones: Hepatitis B and C can be transmitted through unprotected sex, blood contact, shared needles, or from mother to child. Knowing your status helps prevent accidental transmission to others.
- Get vaccinated: If you test negative, you can protect yourself further with safe and effective vaccines for hepatitis A and B. These are available through many Bastion Health plans.
- Prevent costly emergencies: Late-stage hepatitis can lead to liver failure, emergency surgeries, or transplants. Early detection helps you avoid these outcomes and the financial burden that comes with them.
If you’re searching for hepatitis screening in Nigeria, vaccination services, or specialist care for hepatitis B and C, Bastion Health provides reliable and affordable options.
Our health plans give you access to:
- Hepatitis B and C testing
- Routine immunization for Hepatitis A and B
- Consultation with liver specialists
- Affordable treatment support and referrals
This World Hepatitis Day, we encourage every Nigerian to take the proactive step of getting tested. By knowing your status, you protect yourself and the people you care about.
To learn more about our hepatitis coverage and affordable health plans, visit www.bastionhmo.com.
