By
Bamanga Abdullahi Gombi
A Medical practitioner Dr. Hassan Abdulsalam, has advised members of the public to maintain regular medical check-ups for the early detection and prevention of hepatitis.
Dr. Abdulsalam who gave the advice in an interview with Radio Nigeria in Yola, described hepatitis as an inflammation of the liver caused by viral and bacterial infections, excessive alcohol consumption, or inhalation of harmful chemicals.
He said liver has the capacity to regenerate itself, if the disease has not progressed to a chronic stage.
He therefore advised patients to adhere strictly to prescribed medications and avoid unregulated herbal remedies that could worsen their condition.
The medical expert stressed the need for hepatitis patients to be mindful of their diet, paying attention to nutritional composition and the hygienic condition of the food they consume.
He further warned against heavily processed and fried foods, particularly those prepared with groundnut oil, saying they could place additional strain on the liver.
“Law sugar carbohydrates and plant-based foods are recommended for hepatitis patients, except for those who are diabetic and may require more tailored dietary plan.”
He urged patients to avoid extremely hot and polluted environments, noting that such conditions could undermine recovery and general well-being.
Corroborating, Dr. Pius Warigasu said people often ignore changes in their bodies, noting that without proper treatment, hepatitis can persist for a long time, causing serious health complications and even death.
He said Hepatitis C can spread through contact with infected blood, urging people to take precautions and maintain good health practices.
He added that Hepatitis E is commonly spread through contaminated food and water, emphasising the need for caution.
“Hepatitis can be transmited through sexual intercourse, childbirth and poorly managed labour, where there is late clamping of the cord and separation of the placenta.”
He also warned those who prioritise herbal medicines to check the NAFDAC registration number, manufacture and expiry dates, and to avoid products that are not scientifically guaranteed.
Narrating his experience, a 28-year-old Hepatitis B patient, Abubakar Mohammed, said he first discovered his status during a routine medical screening after experiencing unusual symptoms he had earlier mistaken for an ordinary illness.
Mr. Mohammed said the disease significantly affected his daily activities and appetite, adding that the initial diagnosis came as a shock before he came to terms with it.
He expressed optimism about his recovery, noting that he had observed remarkable improvement since he began adhering strictly to medical advice and prescribed dietary guidelines.
“I am calling on the public to prioritise regular medical check-ups, avoid self-medication, and maintain personal and environmental hygiene.”
He also urged government, health workers and the media to intensify awareness campaigns on hepatitis and make screening more accessible.
