The Northern Territory is actively promoting awareness about hepatitis as it prepares for World Hepatitis Day on July 28, 2023. In a concerted effort, various community events and free testing clinics will be held across the region to encourage testing for hepatitis B and C. These viruses are significant contributors to liver cancer globally and particularly in Australia.
According to Anngie Everitt, Nurse Practitioner at the Northern Territory AIDS and Hepatitis Council’s (NTAHC) Hepatitis Clinic, “Hepatitis B and C cause around 90% of liver-related deaths in Australia, and liver cancer is rising faster than any other cancer.” Early testing is crucial, as it allows for timely treatment, which can prevent severe health consequences.
Recent research conducted by the Menzies School of Health Research has identified a unique strain of chronic hepatitis B, known as the C4 sub-genotype. This strain primarily affects First Nations people and progresses aggressively towards liver cirrhosis and cancer. By the end of 2023, it is estimated that more than 6,300 people in the Northern Territory were living with hepatitis B or C. Alarmingly, treatment rates have declined, with only 2% of hepatitis C patients and 10.9% of hepatitis B patients receiving treatment that year.
To combat this trend, health officials are urging individuals who may be at risk to take advantage of the free testing available. “There’s a simple one pill a day for 12 weeks cure for hepatitis C and treatment and vaccination for hepatitis B,” Everitt explains. She emphasizes that those with a family history of hepatitis B or individuals who have been incarcerated should consider getting tested.
The NTAHC Alice Springs Manager, Karen Nicolaysen, highlighted the organization’s partnership with Clinic 34 to offer free and confidential hepatitis C testing. The service operates Monday to Friday during business hours, and results are provided on the spot, typically within 1 to 60 minutes. Nicolaysen noted, “The testing model is peer-led and is carried out by peer workers with lived experience of hepatitis C.” This approach helps create a supportive environment for those seeking help.
NTAHC Darwin also offers confidential testing and tailored treatment plans every Thursday. Peer worker Sal Endemann, known for her personal journey with hepatitis, plays a vital role in guiding clients through the testing and treatment process. “Our innovative nurse-peer partnership model of hepatitis care at NTAHC Darwin and Alice Springs has been so successful because of the person-centred, holistic approach we take,” Everitt adds.
Symptoms of hepatitis B can be subtle and include fatigue, joint pain, jaundice, dark urine, and abdominal discomfort. If left untreated, both hepatitis B and C can lead to severe liver failure or cancer.
The events scheduled for World Hepatitis Day will provide resources and support, with free clinics and awareness programs planned throughout the Northern Territory. For example, free hepatitis testing will be available at NTAHC Alice Springs and NTAHC Darwin. In addition, a “Healthy Liver Lunch” will take place on July 31 at NTAHC Darwin, featuring free meals and information about clinical services.
As part of ongoing efforts to destigmatize hepatitis, the NTAHC encourages community members to participate in testing and treatment programs. “Together, we can break the stigma, boost testing, and ensure no one is left behind in the fight against hepatitis in the NT,” the organization states.
For more information about World Hepatitis Day and local events, visit the official website.
