UNAIR NEWS – One in ten Indonesians remains unaware of their hepatitis B infection, a serious issue given the risks associated, including potential fatalities from delayed treatment.
To address this issue, the Department of Clinical Pathology at Universitas Airlangga Faculty of Medicine conducted a community service initiative titled “Pre-Analytical, Analytical, and Post-Analytical Training for Hepatitis B Examination.” The event was held at the Meeting Hall, 2nd Floor of the Tulungagung Regency Health Office on Saturday, June 15, 2024.
Dr. Yetty Hernaningsih, MD, SpPK(K), Head of the Department of Clinical Pathology UNAIR, emphasized that the primary goal of this initiative was to educate and train the public about hepatitis B.
“We are here in Tulungagung to educate the community about hepatitis B. Our aim is to empower people with the knowledge to conduct screenings or surveillance for hepatitis B, ultimately reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with this disease,” she emphasized.
Transmission risks
Dr. Yulia Nadar Indrasari, MD, SpPK, addressed the audience, highlighted that hepatitis B poses a significant risk of transmission. Modes of transmission include mother-to-child transmission, blood transfusions, and unsafe sexual practices.
“Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable. If infected, they can transmit hepatitis B to their babies, posing health risks to both. Early screening is crucial to mitigate these risks,” Yulia explained.
Healthcare workers are also at high risk of contracting hepatitis B due to their direct contact with patients. Transmission can occur through open wounds exposure to contaminated bodily fluids.
“In addition to early screening, vaccination is crucial to minimize transmission risks. Healthcare workers must prioritize self-protection to prevent the spread of this disease,” Yulia emphasized.
Common symptoms
Dr. Yulia outlined common symptoms of hepatitis B, including darker urine, fatigue, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite, urging prompt medical consultation upon symptom onset.
“Hepatitis B patients may also experience joint and bone pain, and jaundice. Timely medical intervention is essential to prevent chronic symptoms,” she added.
She continued, noting that after six months, individuals with hepatitis B might experience high fever, loss of appetite, joint pain, and skin rashes, underscoring the need for immediate medical attention.
Dr. Yulia expressed optimism that community education efforts in Tulungagung would enhance awareness and understanding of hepatitis B, aiming for a significant reduction in its prevalence by 2030.
Author: Satrio Dwi Naryo
Editor: Feri Fenoria
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