Vietnam is facing a growing problem with chronic hepatitis B, which affects one in every 11 people. Many cases of the disease go undiagnosed and untreated, ultimately leading to liver cancer. According to Dr. Nguyen Van Vinh Chau, early treatment is crucial in preventing hepatitis from progressing and reducing the risk of developing liver cancer.
The World Health Organization estimates that millions of Vietnamese people are living with both hepatitis B and C, making it the leading cause of liver cancer in the country. In recent years, liver cancer cases have been on the rise in Vietnam, surpassing lung cancer as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. This has prompted warnings from experts that many people with hepatitis do not know they are infected, leading to late-stage detection and poor prognosis.
Routine testing in the community is recommended by experts to detect hepatitis B early and improve treatment outcomes. Early treatment is more effective and less costly than waiting until symptoms appear or until the disease has progressed to a later stage. Taiwan has successfully implemented policies to eradicate hepatitis C by promoting early screening and treatment, setting a good example for other countries.
To prevent the progression of liver disease, vaccination against hepatitis B, thorough treatment for those infected, regular check-ups for family members, and a healthy lifestyle are all recommended measures. Resources and support from international organizations are crucial for implementing effective hepatitis elimination programs in Vietnam.
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