Disclaimer: By posting on this web site it is accepted that you have agreed to our Terms. Please DO NOT publish copyrighted material/pictures without the owner’s permission, you are liable for any costs incurred.


Results 1 to 2 of 2
  1. #1
    Trusted Member
    Join Date
    Sep 2009
    Posts
    4,623
    Rep Power
    150

    Hepatitis, HIV, and TB - continuing health challenges in Philippines

    The Asia-Pacific region has the largest share of infections with hepatitis B virus ( HBV ) and C virus ( HCV ) in the world. Over 7 million Filipinos may be chronically infected with HBV, and a smaller number with HCV ( no reliable data ). Both HBV and HBC are strongly associated with development of liver cirrhosis and cancer. Most people with HBV and HBC infection don’t have symptoms. There’s a lack of awareness, and - while treatment is possible - it’s expensive, therefore both infections are undertreated. An HBV vaccination programme for infants in the Philippines is " free " ( a " donation box " is prominently displayed in clinic ), but many ( ~3/5 ) don’t receive the full three recommended doses. No HCV vaccine is yet available.


    HIV infection has increased alarmingly in the country - possibly 55,000 cases by the end of this year ; with a trend from male-female sex to male-male sex transmission ( ~9/10 cases ). Although this is ~ half the cases in the UK, it’s likely the true number of infections is more. HIV infection is now a manageable chronic condition, which can also either be prevented with drugs or - better still - avoided by behaviour including use of condoms ( still not always available in the Philippines ).


    TB is far commoner in the Philippines than the UK ( ~320/100,000 compared to ~10/100,000 ). This is why visa applicants are screened for TB before migrating to the UK. It can also be treated, but over many months ( multidrug resistance is an increasing problem ) - around a third of people living with HIV also have TB infection.


    Worldwide, a disproportionate burden of hepatitis, HIV, and TB are present in current and former prisoners. Prisoners are often held in overcrowded, unsanitary, stressful and violent conditions - ripe for the spread of communicable diseases. Philippine prisons may exceed capacity fourfold.


    Many Asian countries enforce extended incarceration or capital punishment for drug offences. Killing suspected drug users is one solution favoured by the new President and supported by many Filipinos. Each prison inmate may contribute to the increase in serious infections, apart from the cost ( perhaps US$ 1500 annually ). Singapore permits lengthy imprisonment and the death penalty for drug offenders, although rehabilitation is available for first- and second-time offenders. Singapore has the lowest drug use and crime in Southeast Asia.



    ( Previous Forum links here for hepatitis, HIV, and TB.)


  2. #2
    Trusted Member Rosie1958's Avatar
    Join Date
    Sep 2010
    Location
    UK
    Posts
    1,500
    Rep Power
    150
    Thanks for sharing this information Doc Alan. My son is currently waiting for the results of a blood test to check for the above ....... he was bitten through the sleeve of his jacket whilst detaining some drunken woman in custody for the night. Just praying he's ok as he was bitten so hard it drew blood .............


Thread Information

Users Browsing this Thread

There are currently 1 users browsing this thread. (0 members and 1 guests)

Similar Threads

  1. Future Health Challenges
    By Doc Alan in forum Health Issues
    Replies: 3
    Last Post: 29th March 2016, 11:37
  2. Continuing My 13a Immigration Visa Woes
    By Terpe in forum Other Country Immigration & VISA Issues
    Replies: 58
    Last Post: 5th September 2015, 18:49
  3. ABC of hepatitis
    By Doc Alan in forum Health Issues
    Replies: 7
    Last Post: 6th January 2014, 10:58
  4. Health Insurance in Philippines
    By bikerpat in forum Help & Advice
    Replies: 8
    Last Post: 28th July 2013, 08:40
  5. The continuing saga of Nin The Flatulent.
    By Alan in forum Loose Talk, Chat and Off Topic
    Replies: 6
    Last Post: 14th July 2008, 11:01

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •  

Filipino Forum : Philippine Forum