Pre-1995 transfusions carry Hepatitis C risk

Star: PENANG: Hepatitis C is on the rise and those who have had blood transfusions before 1995 are advised to go for a medical check-up.
Malaysian Liver Foundation (MLF) vice-president Datuk Dr Robert Ding Pooi Huat said this was because, prior to 1995, blood donors were not required to undergo screening for Hepatitis C.
“As Hepatitis C is transmittable through contact with infected blood, it is advised that those who received blood transfusion prior to 1995 to conduct a check-up,” he said, adding that the disease could cause chronic liver disease.
Dr Ding said that about 20 to 30% of chronic Hepatitis C individuals developed cirrhosis (hardening of liver) over a 20-year period.
“What worries us most is that the number of infected individuals is rising. There were 134 new cases of Hepatitis C reported in Penang last year, the highest in a year so far compared to only 19 in 2005,” he said.
Dr Ding was speaking at a press conference on Penang Hepatitis Day yesterday.
Also present were organising committee treasurer Datin Dr Goh Geok Tin, committee members Gan Chook Tin and Ng Choong Khee.
On the Penang Hepatitis Day, Dr Ding said MLF would hold a campaign on June 10 from 10am to 7pm at Queensbay Mall.
Among others, there will be free liver enzyme test for the first 300 adults, blood test for Hepatitis A, B and C and Hepatitis A and B vaccination at a special rate. There will also be a public lecture on the “ABC of Hepatitis”.
Contact MLF at 04-226 7989 for details.