Professional nurse, Nhlanhla Mofokeng, is stepping up efforts to raise awareness about hepatitis, the silent but deadly disease that attacks the liver and poses serious risks to kidney health.

She said hepatitis is one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases alongside tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/Aids, claiming lives each year and silently infecting many people worldwide.

Mofokeng emphasised that the government provides free vaccines against hepatitis A and B at public health facilities.

“Children are routinely immunised, and adults at risk can also get vaccinated. Viral hepatitis is the second leading infectious cause of death globally.

“Beyond its devastating link to liver cancer, hepatitis is increasingly recognised as a silent threat to kidney health. Hepatitis B and C are among the leading causes of kidney-related complications, including chronic kidney disease and kidney failure,” she explained.

“The connection between hepatitis and kidney health underscores an urgent call for early detection, treatment and awareness to prevent avoidable deaths.”

She said hepatitis is an inflammatory condition in the liver caused by viruses, immune disorders, drugs, alcohol or certain medications. Mofokeng explained that the liver and kidneys work together to filter toxins, balance electrolytes, and maintain overall health.

“When the liver is damaged or inflamed, it is unable to process nutrients and flush out toxins to fight off any infections. This excess strain can affect the kidneys, reducing their ability to remove waste and balance essential body functions.

“Chronic hepatitis B and C are linked to kidney complications, including inflammation, cryoglobulinemia, and, if untreated, kidney failure,” added Mofokeng.

She spoke of the symptoms to watch, as these complications often develop silently. She elaborated by saying that many people are diagnosed only when their kidneys are significantly affected.

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A few warning signs of kidney involvement in hepatitis:
• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes;
• Foamy urine (a sign of protein leakage);
• High blood pressure;
• Unexplained fatigue;
• Nausea or loss of appetite.

“If left unchecked, these symptoms can progress into chronic kidney disease, requiring dialysis or even a kidney transplant. This is why regular screening and early testing are crucial.

“According to the World Health Organisation, 4.5 million premature deaths in low- and middle-income countries could be avoided by 2030 through improved vaccination, testing, treatment and public education. The good news is that hepatitis is preventable and manageable,” said Mfokeng.

“With regular testing, chronic hepatitis can be detected early, even before symptoms appear, allowing for timely treatment that can slow or prevent complications affecting the liver and kidneys.

“Early diagnosis, combined with access to vaccines, antiviral medication and lifestyle changes, gives patients the best chance to maintain long-term health and avoid severe outcomes, such as kidney failure.”

She concluded by saying hepatitis is more than just a liver disease; it is a silent threat that can damage the kidneys and shorten lives if left undetected.

“By understanding the hidden link between hepatitis and kidney disease, we are reminded that protecting one organ often means protecting another.

“Together, we can stop hepatitis from silently harming two of the body’s most vital organs and prevent lives from being lost unnecessarily,” she concluded.