Naju City in Jeollanam-do is offering free testing for hepatitis B and C to 320 citizens aged 40 and above who are at high risk for hepatitis and liver cancer.
According to the Naju City Health Center on the 28th, liver cancer, which ranks second in cancer mortality in Korea, is caused by hepatitis B and C in about 70% of cases.
Naju City offers free testing for hepatitis B and C to 320 citizens aged 40 and over who are at high risk for hepatitis and liver cancer. [Photo by Naju City]
If not treated in time, the condition can become chronic and worsen into cirrhosis or liver cancer, making early testing and treatment very important.
In particular, since hepatitis C is not included in the national health screening program and there is no preventive vaccine, early treatment and management are crucial, so pre-screening is recommended.
The free testing method involves obtaining a blood test coupon for hepatitis B (antigen and antibody) and hepatitis C (antibody) at the health center, health branch offices, or clinics, and submitting it to designated hospitals.
The designated hospitals are ‘Hangaram Internal Medicine Clinic’ and ‘Sokpyeonhan Internal Medicine Clinic,’ both located in Bitgaram-dong.
Meanwhile, individuals who test positive for hepatitis B or C after the test will be guided for hospital or clinic treatment and registered with the National Health Insurance Service as candidates for national cancer (liver cancer) screening.
Those who do not have hepatitis B antibodies can receive free preventive vaccination at the health center or health branch offices.
Major symptoms of hepatitis B and C include easy fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.
Muscle pain and mild fever may occur, urine may become dark in color, and in severe cases, jaundice symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes may appear. In fatal cases, it can lead to death.
A health center official said, “Early testing through self-awareness of hepatitis status is essential for liver cancer prevention,” and added, “We hope people will prevent liver cancer through hepatitis B and C testing and take a greater interest in the national cancer screening program.”
For inquiries regarding hepatitis B and C testing, contact the Health Promotion Division, Health Support Team at the Naju City Health Center.
Naju = Kim Yukbong, Honam Reporting Headquarters, Asia Economy baekok@asiae.co.kr
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