Combating Hepatitis B and C: A Lifelong Commitment to Health

Raising Awareness and Supporting Public Health in Dubai

Hepatitis B and C are serious viral infections that affect the liver. If not treated early, they can lead to long-term health problems such as liver failure or cancer. The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is working to eliminate these diseases from Dubai through public awareness and support programs. This article explains what Hepatitis B and C are, how to prevent them, and what steps DHA is taking to protect the community.

What Are Hepatitis B and C?

Hepatitis B and C are diseases caused by viruses that attack the liver. These infections can become long-term (chronic) and lead to severe health problems.

How They Spread:

• Hepatitis B spreads through contact with infected blood, semen, or other body fluids.

• Hepatitis C spreads mainly through contact with infected blood.

Why These Infections Are Dangerous

If left untreated, Hepatitis B and C can cause:

• Chronic liver disease

• Liver cirrhosis (scarring of the liver)

• Liver cancer

• Liver failure

These conditions may not show symptoms at first, so early testing is important.

How to Prevent Hepatitis B and C

Prevention is the best way to stay healthy. Here are some simple steps to reduce your risk:

Preventive Tips:

• Get vaccinated for Hepatitis B

•  Avoid sharing needles or personal items like razors

• Practice safe sex

•  Make sure blood products are tested before transfusion

•  Use clean equipment for tattoos or piercings

•  Follow safety practices in healthcare settings

There is no vaccine for Hepatitis C, so prevention is especially important.

Get Tested: Know Your Hepatitis Status

Testing is the only way to know for sure if you have Hepatitis B or C. It’s quick and easy—and early detection can save your liver and your life.

Who Should Get Tested?

• People with a history of unprotected sex or shared needles

• Healthcare workers

• People born in countries where Hepatitis is common

• Anyone who had a blood transfusion before modern testing became standard

• People with tattoos or piercings done in non-licensed settings

Treatment Options for Hepatitis

Both Hepatitis B and C can be managed with medication. Hepatitis C is often curable, and Hepatitis B can be controlled to prevent liver damage.

Treatment Overview:

• Hepatitis B: Treated with antiviral medications to slow the virus and protect the liver

• Hepatitis C: Treated with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), which cure most people within weeks

It's important to see a healthcare provider who has experience in treating hepatitis.

DHA Programs to Fight Hepatitis

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is committed to protecting public health and eliminating hepatitis in Dubai. In line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, DHA has launched key support programs.

DHA Support Programs:

 Basmah Program

• Focuses on early detection of breast, colorectal, and cervical cancers

• Aims to reduce cancer deaths through screening and awareness

 Hepatitis Program

• Launched by DHA’s Dubai Health Insurance Corporation on January 1, 2018

• Supports screening and treatment of Hepatitis B and C

• Works toward eliminating hepatitis from Dubai

What You Can Do

We all play a role in creating a healthier community. Protect yourself and others by taking these simple steps:

•  Get vaccinated for Hepatitis B

• Take precautions to avoid exposure

• Get tested if you are at risk

•  Seek treatment if needed

• Share information with friends and family

Together for a Healthier Dubai

Hepatitis B and C are serious but preventable and treatable diseases. 

Thanks to the efforts of DHA and increased public awareness, Dubai is taking strong steps toward a future free from hepatitis.

Let’s stay informed, take action, and support each other in this ongoing journey toward better health.