Drug Abuse and Unhygienic Dental Practices Fuel Hepatitis Epidemic in Kashmir, Says DAK

PAKISTAN: The Doctors Association Kashmir (DAK) has raised urgent concerns about the escalating number of hepatitis cases in the Kashmir valley, which has now reached epidemic proportions. 

DAK President Dr Nisar ul Hassan has pointed to drug abuse and unhygienic dental practices as the primary drivers of this alarming situation.

Drug Abuse Amplifies Hepatitis Risk

Dr Hassan highlighted the alarming rise in drug abuse cases in Kashmir over the past few decades. As a consequence, drug addicts are at a significantly higher risk of contracting hepatitis and can potentially spread the infection to others. 

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A recent study conducted at the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences Kashmir revealed that a staggering 72% of drug addicts tested positive for Hepatitis C infection. The research indicated that each drug addict infected with the hepatitis virus could potentially transmit the disease to as many as 20 other individuals within the first three years of initial infection.

Unhygienic Dental Practices Contribute to Infection Spread

In addition to drug abuse, unhygienic dental practices have emerged as another major cause of the high rates of hepatitis infection in the region. 

Dr Hassan pointed out various concerning practices observed in dental clinics. Many clinics are found to use unsterilized or improperly sterilized instruments, fail to clean tools between patients, and reuse disposable items meant for single-use. 

Moreover, unsterile needles are used in multiple dose medication vials. The lack of glove changes between patients further exacerbates cross-infection risks, and patients are often not screened for hepatitis prior to dental interventions, leading to the inadvertent transfer of the viruses from one patient to another.

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Silent Onset and Liver Health Concerns

Dr Hassan emphasized that both Hepatitis B and C infections are serious medical conditions with delayed onset symptoms, making early screening vital. 

These infections can cause cirrhosis or scarring of the liver, potentially leading to liver failure and even cancer. While the Hepatitis B vaccine has been included in the routine/universal immunization programme after 2006, many individuals above 17 years of age remain unvaccinated. 

The DAK President urged people to get vaccinated against hepatitis B promptly to protect themselves from the virus. As for Hepatitis C, while there is no vaccine available, early detection offers excellent cure rates for this viral infectious disease.

The Doctors Association Kashmir emphasizes the urgent need for public awareness campaigns on the importance of vaccination, safe dental practices, and the risks associated with drug abuse to combat the escalating hepatitis epidemic. Health authorities and communities must work together to implement preventive measures and ensure the well-being of the population in the region.