HEPATITIS A B & C PROFILE

The Hepatitis A B & C Profile screens for hepatitis, which is the swelling of the liver, a scenario that can be quite catastrophic to the overall mechanics of the body.

The liver is an organ that has a very big responsibility and when it is not functioning properly, the breakdown of proteins, filtration of toxins, production of hormones and the efficient balance of the metabolism are all in jeopardy.

Hepatitis A

Spread by food or drink contaminated with faeces. Those infected are often travellers to parts of the world where hygiene is poor. In many cases there is no illness or a flu-like illness with jaundice which is mild and does not progress to chronic hepatitis.

Hepatitis B

Hep B is mainly transmitted sexually, needle sharing amongst drug abusers` and sometimes from tattooing or acupuncture with unsterile needles. The Hepatitis B virus can persist for years after the initial infection and can lead to chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis or liver cancer. In Africa and Asia approximately 20% of the population are carrying the virus. Those at risk should practice safe sex and avoid blood exchange from needles. Vaccination is available for those at high risk.

Hepatitis C

It is calculated that liver cancer due to the Hepatitis C virus will triple in the next 10 - 20 years.

Hep C is transmitted by:

Infected blood or blood products
Hypodermic needles
Sexual contact
Contact with other body fluids e.g. Milk (including transmission to babies from breast milk) and sweat.

80% of those with Hepatitis C virus develop severe chronic hepatitis.

20% of those progress to cirrhosis of the liver over a 20 year period.