Hepatitis is a liver inflammation caused by viruses and noninfectious factors that can be lethal. If left untreated, hepatitis can proceed to cirrhosis, a condition characterized by the gradual dysfunction of the liver. It can also lead to a type of liver cancer called hepatocellular carcinoma. About 65% of all cases of liver cancer are linked to HBV and HCV infections. It is estimated that over the next 40-50 years, 1 million patients with untreated chronic HCV infection may perish from HCV-related illnesses.
Dr. Manav Wadhawan
Director in Institute for Digestive & Liver Diseases at BLK Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi
