The Chief Executive Officer of PIWAK Natural Health Care, Dr. Prince Nelson Mortoti, has cautioned the public against underestimating the dangers of Hepatitis B, warning that the viral infection is responsible for about 75 per cent of liver cancer cases worldwide.
He stressed that Hepatitis B remains one of the leading public health challenges, particularly in developing countries, where many infected persons are unaware of their status until complications arise.
Speaking during a public health education campaign, Dr. Mortoti said increasing awareness, early testing and preventive measures are critical to reducing the burden of the disease and preventing avoidable deaths.
According to him, Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily attacks the liver and can progress to chronic liver disease, liver cirrhosis and liver cancer if left untreated.
He explained that the virus is commonly transmitted through contact with infected blood and body fluids, unprotected sexual intercourse, the sharing of contaminated needles or sharp objects, unsafe blood transfusions and from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
Dr. Mortoti noted that one of the greatest challenges associated with Hepatitis B is that many infected persons do not experience symptoms during the early stages of the disease.
However, he said when symptoms occur, they may include persistent fatigue, fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, dark-coloured urine, yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice), joint pains and unexplained weight loss.
He warned that delaying diagnosis and treatment could result in irreversible liver damage, adding that chronic Hepatitis B significantly increases the risk of liver failure and liver cancer.
“Hepatitis B is often described as a silent killer because many people live with the virus for years without knowing they are infected. By the time symptoms become obvious, serious liver damage may already have occurred,” he stated.
Dr. Mortoti therefore urged the public to undergo regular Hepatitis B screening, receive vaccination where appropriate and seek prompt medical attention after a positive diagnosis.
He also encouraged people to avoid sharing razors, needles and other sharp objects, ensure blood is screened before transfusion and practise safe sexual behaviour to minimise the risk of infection.
The PIWAK Natural Health Care CEO further emphasised the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious foods, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and adopting habits that support good liver health.
As part of his public education campaign, Dr. Mortoti highlighted 3P Garlic Mixture, a product manufactured by PIWAK Natural Health Care, as a nutritional supplement that supports general wellness and immune health. He explained that the product contains garlic, which is known for its antioxidant properties and may contribute to overall health when used alongside healthy lifestyle practices.
He, however, advised that individuals diagnosed with Hepatitis B should seek appropriate medical evaluation and treatment from qualified healthcare professionals, stressing that no herbal or nutritional product should be considered a substitute for evidence-based medical care.
Dr. Mortoti appealed to Ghanaians to make Hepatitis B prevention a national priority through regular health checks, vaccination and public education, saying early detection remains the most effective way to reduce the devastating effects of the disease and save lives.
