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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    How serious is hepatitis?

    Related Topic
    Digestive Health
    • 2 answers
    • Hepatitis NSW
    • Dr Tom Xinyi Zhou
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  • Hepatitis NSW

    We are the peak community-based hepatitis organisation in the Australian state of New South Wales. We take a partnership approach with people primarily affected by … View Profile

    There are over 300,000 cases of viral hepatitis among Australians. Left untreated, many people with chronic (long term) viral hepatitis will develop liver cancer and liver failure. Indeed, it has become the most common reason for liver transplant. Most people will not experience liver cancer or failure but significant numbers will develop cirrhosis of the liver and their quality of life will be affected. The Federal and State governments have put in place ongoing strategies to address the Australian hepatitis C and hepatitis B epidemics.

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  • Dr Tom Xinyi Zhou

    Gastroenterologist

    Dr Tom Zhou is a specialist Gastroenterologtist. His specialist interests include Endoscopy, Colonosocopy, Liver diseases and Colon cancer screening. Dr Tom Zhou completed his Medical … View Profile

    Hepatitis, I assume it refers to viral hepatitis.

    There are around 280,000 to 300,000 hepatitis C sufferers in Australia, and there are around 250,000 hepatitis B sufferers in Australia. Hence in total there are around 550,000 in total across Australia.

    Left untreated hepatitis can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer, and other complications.

    There are highly effective treatment for both hepatitis C and hepatitis B. If you suspect you may have hepatitis, you should see your family doctor. If diagnosis is confirmed you should be referred for specialist treatment ASAP.

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