Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan has revealed that 75% of his liver is damaged due to Hepatitis B. He also disclosed that he survived tuberculosis (TB) for eight years without knowing it.
Bachchan shared his personal experiences as a survivor of both Hepatitis B and Tuberculosis to emphasize the importance of early diagnosis in overcoming disease and leading a healthy life. He stated that he doesn't hesitate to speak publicly about being a TB survivor. He believes that sharing his experiences can inspire others to undergo preventive tests and seek early detection.
The actor's liver damage is a result of a blood transfusion he received after a serious accident on a film set in 1982. He required 60 units of blood, and one of those units was infected with the Hepatitis B virus, which negatively affected his liver. The Hepatitis B infection was detected much later during a routine checkup. Bachchan has been quoted as saying that a "bad blood infusion went in and 75% of my liver is gone but because I was able to detect it even after a period of 20 years, when 75% of my liver is gone. I am still surviving on 25%".
Bachchan was diagnosed with tuberculosis in 2000, although he was unaware of the condition for eight years prior. After being diagnosed, he underwent treatment and now proudly identifies as a TB survivor.
Bachchan has been associated with various health campaigns, including those for polio, Hepatitis B, Tuberculosis, and diabetes. He uses his personal experiences to promote the idea of getting tested and diagnosed early. He urges people to get regular check-ups to facilitate early diagnosis, emphasizing that early detection is key to finding a cure. He stated that if he can overcome these diseases, anyone can, as treatment is possible.