Responding to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) ambitious goal of eradicating hepatitis, Thailand is intensifying its efforts to combat this silent health crisis. With an estimated 2-3 million people living with hepatitis B and C, the country is grappling with a significant public health challenge.
To address the stigma often associated with the disease, the Thai government is promoting a “screening by year of birth” approach.
Individuals born before 1992 are encouraged to undergo one-time hepatitis screening. This strategy aims to destigmatize the process and facilitate early detection.
Prof. Dr. Tawisak Tanwandee, head of Siriraj Hospital’s Division of Gastroenterology, emphasized the importance of screening.
“Screening is now easier than ever,” he said. “Thanks to fingertip blood tests, we can conduct screenings in various locations, including sub-district health-promoting hospitals and community clinics.”
The cost-effectiveness of these tests is another advantage. While traditional blood tests were expensive, fingertip blood screening is significantly cheaper and more accessible.
The National Health Security Office (NHSO) also offers free screenings to eligible Thai citizens through the Paotang application.
Despite these efforts, screening rates remain low. To increase awareness and reach more people, the Ministry of Public Health is empowering healthcare workers at the community level to proactively identify and screen at-risk individuals.
To achieve the WHO’s target of eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030, Thailand aims to screen over 90% of its population and treat more than 80% of those requiring treatment.
Reducing the mortality rate of chronic hepatitis patients by over 65% is also a key objective.
Hepatitis B and C can lead to serious complications, including liver cancer and cirrhosis.
Many people remain unaware of their infection as the diseases often show no symptoms until the advanced stages. This silent nature of the disease underscores the importance of early detection and treatment.
Thailand has made progress in preventing mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B through vaccination programs and improved healthcare practices.
However, the country still faces challenges in addressing hepatitis B infection among adults, which is often acquired through sexual contact.
Prof. Dr. Tawisak is calling for increased screening and early treatment for hepatitis B, as well as expanded access to antiviral medications.
He is also emphasizing the need for technology-driven solutions to improve patient adherence to treatment and enhance overall care.
With a growing awareness of the devastating impact of hepatitis, Thailand is committed to strengthening its response to this public health threat.
By prioritizing screening, treatment, and prevention, the country aims to reduce the burden of hepatitis and improve the lives of millions of its citizens.
