NASFAT Meiran Branch: Over 100 Beneficiaries Get Free Hepatitis Tests

In a bid to stop the spread of diseases in the country and embraced good health NASRUL-LAHI-IL-FATIH SOCIETY (NASFAT), Meiran branch in partnership with health volunteer Naija (HVN) offered free Hepatitis B test and to over 100 beneficiaries in the community.

The exercise took place at Meiran Central Mosque, Meiran Lagos, on Sunday, 21st of August, 2022.

Speaking at the sensitization exercise themed, “HEPATITIS WHAT EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW”, the Executive Director, Health Volunteers Nigeria Initiative, Abdulbasith Akinyemi-Eshilokun, described hepatitis as a condition leading to an inflammation of the liver.

According to him, its common cause is by a viral infection, though, other possible causes of hepatitis exists, which include; autoimmune response and hepatitis that occurs as a secondary result of medications, drugs, toxins, and alcohol.

Explaining the function of the liver as bile production for digestion, Eshinlokun said that it is detoxifying by filtering toxins from the body, excrete bilirubin as its break down red blood cells, cholesterol, hormones and drugs.

“Hepatitis is classified into A B C D and E, as treatment options is determined by each type” he further explained.

On the symptoms of hepatitis and how it is being transmitted, he said: “Chronic infectious hepatitis, like hepatitis B and C, may not show symptoms in the beginning as it develops slowly and may be too subtle to notice. Symptoms may not occur until the damage affects liver function. However, signs and symptoms of acute hepatitis appear quickly.

“Fatigue, flu-like symptoms, dark urine, pale tool, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, yellow skin and eyes, which maybe signs of jaundice”, he said.

Outlining the Diagnosis of Hepatitis, the HVN Director said: “At first, your doctor will take your history to determine any risk factors you may have for infectious hormone infectious hepatitis.

“During a physical examination, your doctor may press down gently on your abdomen to see if there’s pain or tenderness. Your doctor may also feel to see if your liver is enlarged. If yours minor eyes are yellow, your doctor will note this during the exam”, he added.