Chronic Liver Disease in Ethiopia – What You Need to Know

Zebeaman Tibebu
Mar 19
4 min read

💡 Did you know that Ethiopia is part of the 'hepatitis belt,' where viral-caused liver disease is highly prevalent?

"Hepatitis Belt" is a region of high endemicity of Hepatitis in sub-Saharan Africa where an estimated 82 million people live with viral hepatitis.

The Grim News

Two years ago, a 37-year-old woman walked into the outpatient department with her husband. She complained of a dull pain in her right upper abdomen—persistent but not severe. Upon presentation, their dear expectation was to be sent off with a reassurance, maybe a simple prescription.

However, Life had other plans.

The test results revealed liver cancer, advanced and inoperable at the time. The underlying cause? Chronic Hepatitis B infection. Her liver was significantly scarred. Unfortunately, there was no curative treatment, only palliative care to manage symptoms and maintain her quality of life for as long as possible.

It was evident on their faces, as the grim reality of this devastating news sank in. She sat in silence, absorbing the reality, while her husband's grip on her hand tightened. The conversation took an unexpected turn. Immediately she was started on medications to manage the symptoms while slowing the progression of the disease.

Eight months later, the inevitable happened. She arrived at the emergency department of a nearby health center with complications—complications she never recovered from.

Had she undergone a check-up years earlier, her story could have been one of resilience and survival. Even better, a story of wellness.

Her story is just one of many.

This personal experience highlights the broader health issue...

The Numbers

Every year, thousands of Ethiopians suffer from chronic liver disease (CLD), yet most don’t realize it until it’s too late. In 2019 only, CLD was the seventh leading cause of death in Ethiopia, accounting for approximately 24 deaths per 100,000 people. Its actual prevalence is not known.

Could you or someone you know be at risk?

Liver Under Attack

Your liver is a powerhouse organ that processes nutrients, detoxifies harmful substances, and keeps your body functioning. But when it is under constant attack—from infections, lifestyle habits, or toxins—it starts to fail.

The biggest challenge? CLD doesn’t always show symptoms until the liver is severely damaged, leading to cirrhosis or liver failure.

Why is CLD a Growing Concern in Ethiopia?

Several factors contribute to the rising burden of liver disease in Ethiopia:

Hepatitis B & C Infections: Ethiopia is part of the "hepatitis belt," with 6-12% of the population infected with Hepatitis B. That’s millions of people at risk. A significant portion of these infections occur in childhood, which is why Hepatitis B vaccination was included in the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI).

Hepatitis C also poses a threat, with a prevalence of at least 2.5%. These viral infections are the leading causes of CLD.

Yet, many remain unaware of their infection status, and far too few take preventive measures like vaccination.

Alcohol Consumption & Khat Chewing: Regular alcohol use as well as khat chewing, can accelerate liver damage. While specific national statistics are limited, these practices are culturally prevalent and pose significant health risks.
Fatty Liver Disease: Poor diet and rising cases of diabetes are increasing the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Although exact figures are scarce, the global trend suggests a growing concern in Ethiopia as well.
Aflatoxin Exposure: Contaminated food, especially grains and nuts, contains aflatoxins that are highly toxic to the liver. Aflatoxins have been detected in Guaya (North Ethiopia) and sorghum (East Ethiopia). The role of such aflatoxin exposure in contributing to liver scarring (cirrhosis) is well supported by research.

Why This Matters?

Liver disease is not just a personal health issue—it has economic and social consequences as in the story. Many affected individuals are in their productive years, meaning their illness impacts families, workplaces, and communities.

Moreover, Ethiopia has limited access to liver specialists and transplant services, making prevention and early intervention critical.

What Can Be Done?

✅ Early Screening & Vaccination

Routine screening for hepatitis B & C can save lives.
Hepatitis B vaccination is essential to prevent future infections.

✅ Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Reducing alcohol intake and avoiding khat can lower the risk of liver disease.
Maintaining a balanced diet and staying active supports liver health.
Limit high-fat diets, consume only healthy fats (unsaturated fats found in olive oil, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish), and minimize saturated and trans fats from processed and fried foods.

✅ Policy & Awareness

Public health campaigns should promote early detection, vaccinations, and education about liver disease risks.
Stronger food safety regulations can help reduce aflatoxin exposure.
Expanding access to liver disease specialists and treatment options is critical.

The Role of Tegbar Organization

Tegbar, a U.S.-based NGO, is stepping up to make a difference. Through strategic partnerships with local and international organizations, Tegbar Organization is not just raising awareness—it’s working to actively transform lives. The organization is committed to fighting Hepatitis B and C head-on.

But Tegbar Organization’s impact goes beyond advocacy. In a country where out-of-pocket payments predominate in the health system, most patients struggle with the high cost of treatment. That’s why Tegbar Organization aims to provide financial assistance, ensuring that those battling liver disease receive life-saving care without the burden of overwhelming medical expenses.

With every initiative, Tegbar Organization brings hope, healing, and a renewed chance at life.