As the world marks World Hepatitis Day, the Chief Executive Officer of PIWAK Natural Health, Dr. Prince Nelson Mortoti, has called on Ghanaians to take proactive steps to protect their livers through regular screening, vaccination, healthy lifestyles and natural immune support.
According to him, Hepatitis B remains one of the silent but deadly viral infections affecting millions of people globally, with many infected persons unaware of their status until severe liver complications develop.
Speaking to The Punch newspaper to commemorate the global health awareness day, Dr. Mortoti stressed that Hepatitis B poses a serious public health threat because the virus attacks the liver and may lead to liver cirrhosis, liver failure or liver cancer if left undetected and untreated.
He explained that many people carry the virus for years without experiencing any symptoms, making regular medical screening extremely important.
“Hepatitis B is often called a silent killer because many infected individuals look healthy until the disease has caused significant damage to the liver.
Early diagnosis saves lives,” he said.
Dr. Mortoti urged Ghanaians to take advantage of available screening services and ensure they know their Hepatitis B status.
He further encouraged those who have not been vaccinated to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine as one of the most effective preventive measures against the disease.
Healthy Lifestyle.
The herbal medicine practitioner noted that maintaining a healthy immune system through proper nutrition, regular exercise, adequate rest and avoidance of excessive alcohol consumption plays an important role in protecting liver health.
He cautioned against self-medication and the indiscriminate use of unapproved herbal products, stressing that any person diagnosed with Hepatitis B should seek professional medical care and follow the advice of qualified healthcare providers.
Role of Garlic.
Dr. Mortoti explained that garlic has long been recognised for its nutritional and antioxidant properties, which contribute to general wellness and immune system support.
According to him, 3P Garlic Mixture, produced by PIWAK Natural Health, is made from carefully processed garlic extracts and is intended to support overall health as part of a healthy lifestyle.
He indicated that garlic contains natural compounds, including allicin, which possess antioxidant properties that help protect body cells from oxidative stress while supporting the body’s natural defence system.
“The liver performs hundreds of important functions in the body. Supporting overall health through good nutrition and natural antioxidant-rich foods such as garlic can contribute to general wellness,” he explained.
Dr. Mortoti, however, advised the public that 3P Garlic Mixture is not a cure for Hepatitis B and should not replace medical diagnosis, vaccination or treatment prescribed by qualified healthcare professionals.
He urged individuals living with Hepatitis B to continue attending regular medical reviews and adhere strictly to treatment recommendations from their healthcare providers.
Preventive Measures.
He outlined several preventive measures against Hepatitis B, including:
Getting vaccinated against Hepatitis B.
Undergoing regular medical screening.
Avoiding the sharing of needles, razors and other sharp objects.
Ensuring safe blood transfusions.
Practising safe sexual behaviour.
Maintaining proper personal hygiene.
Eating a balanced diet and avoiding excessive alcohol intake.
World Hepatitis Day.
World Hepatitis Day, observed annually on July 28, seeks to raise awareness about viral hepatitis and encourage governments, health institutions and individuals to intensify efforts towards prevention, testing and treatment.
Dr. Mortoti appealed to Ghanaians not to ignore liver health, stressing that prevention remains the most effective weapon against Hepatitis B.
He said greater public awareness, early detection, vaccination and healthy living would significantly reduce the burden of the disease and help protect future generations from preventable liver-related illnesses.
