Cerba Lancet Screens 247 for Hepatitis B in Mushin

Cerba Lancet, in collaboration with the Mushin Local Government Area, organized a community outreach program to provide free hepatitis B screenings, marking World Hepatitis Day. Dr. (Mrs) Olayemi Dawodu, Managing Director and CEO of Cerba Lancet, stated that approximately 18.2 million Nigerians are living with chronic hepatitis B.

The event allowed 247 participants to determine their hepatitis status and receive health information, along with free medications, food, and health checks. In 2022, Nigeria recorded about 325,000 new hepatitis infections, primarily hepatitis B, with a prevalence rate of eight to nine percent among the population.

Dr. Dawodu explained the modes of transmission for hepatitis B and C, emphasizing the importance of vaccination against hepatitis B. She noted the need for increased advocacy and education in local languages to improve public understanding and reduce new infections.

The outreach also provided palliative support for those in need and referrals for individuals testing positive.