Hepatitis refers to the inflammation of the liver caused by viruses like A, B, and C, which can lead to liver damage and affect its ability to function properly.
In children, hepatitis is generally uncommon, but when it does occur, the health consequences can be severe. Ahead of World Hepatitis Day 2024, observed on July 28 every year, the OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Dr. Nidhi Rawal, Lead Consultant - Pediatric Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist, Madhukar Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi, who discussed the long-term effects of hepatitis on paediatric liver health and offered insights on how parents can manage the condition in children.
Hepatitis In Children
Hepatitis can be of two types: acute or chronic.
Acute hepatitis often leads to symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, and abdominal pain. On the other hand, chronic hepatitis can be more sneaky, leading to long-term liver damage without obvious symptoms.
According to Dr Rawal, diagnosing hepatitis in children requires careful medical evaluation, including blood tests and liver function tests.
Listing the most common types of hepatitis in children, she shared:
Hepatitis A is typically spread through contaminated food and water. It often causes acute liver infections but rarely leads to chronic disease. In India, hepatitis A is a significant concern, especially in areas with poor sanitation.
Hepatitis B is a more serious infection that can become chronic, leading to long-term liver damage. It spreads through contact with bodily fluids. According to the WHO, around 40 million people are chronically infected with hepatitis B in India.
Hepatitis C is primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact. While less common in children, it can lead to chronic liver disease if not treated promptly. The prevalence of hepatitis C in India ranges from six to twelve million people.
Long Term Effects Of Hepatitis In Kids
If left untreated and unmanaged, hepatitis can have long-term effects on children's liver health. Dr Rawal warned that chronic hepatitis can contribute to liver damage, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer.
She added that children with chronic liver disease may experience growth and developmental issues, impacting their overall quality of life.
According to research, the number of children and adolescents with cirrhosis is increasing globally. Researchers noted that the prevalence rate has risen by 18% globally between 1990 and 2019, despite overall improvements in child health.
Also Read: Fatty Liver: Tips To Avoid Fatty Liver Disease In Children
Prevention And Management Tips
Dr Rawal believes prevention is the best strategy against hepatitis, encouraging more people to get their vaccinations against hepatitis A and B.
"In India, the hepatitis B vaccine is part of the national immunisation schedule, but coverage needs improvement. For those already infected, treatment options include antiviral medications and lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and avoiding alcohol," she said.
According to her, hepatitis A is common among children, with a high burden of disease in areas with inadequate sanitation. The WHO suggests that infection with hepatitis A is common in low- and middle-income countries with poor sanitary conditions and hygienic practices, adding that most children (90%) have been infected with the hepatitis A virus before the age of 10 years, most often without symptoms.
Hepatitis B and C also pose serious threats, with millions of people affected, the doctor added, sharing that the challenges in India include limited access to healthcare, a lack of awareness, and insufficient vaccination coverage.
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