Bangkok: The National Health Security Office (NHSO) has issued a warning about the increasing risk of liver fluke infections among young people and is urging them to utilize their universal health coverage cards for free screening.
According to Thai News Agency, the NHSO has expressed concerns about the rising trend of liver fluke infections, particularly among younger generations who consume raw or undercooked freshwater fish. This parasitic infection is often asymptomatic but can lead to severe health issues, including bile duct cancer, if reinfected. The NHSO is urging citizens, especially those aged 15 and older, to take advantage of the free annual screening available through their NHSO benefits at local healthcare facilities.
Dr. Attaporn Limpanyalerd, Deputy Secretary-General of the NHSO, highlighted alarming reports from pre-semester health screenings in the northeastern region, which showed a high incidence of liver fluke infections among new students. The Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute at Khon Kaen University has corroborated these findings, noting an increasing trend among Gen Z, attributed to their dietary habits involving dishes like raw fish salad and fermented fish products that have not been properly cooked.
Dr. Attaporn emphasized the silent threat posed by liver fluke infections, which can remain undetected due to the absence of symptoms. Without intervention, continued consumption of infected fish can lead to chronic bile duct inflammation and a heightened risk of developing bile duct cancer. He stressed the importance of regular screening, especially for those who consume raw or undercooked fish or have a history of infection.
The NHSO has incorporated the "Rapid Urine Screening Kit for Liver Fluke" or OV-RDT into their National Health Security System, providing an accessible and free testing option for at-risk groups. This initiative, developed by the Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, is part of a proactive approach in high-risk areas and has been included in the Thai Innovation Registry.
From the fiscal year 2025 to the first eight months of 2026, over 272,000 individuals have accessed the OV-RDT test kit. The NHSO continues to promote these services in high-risk regions like Health Region 7, which covers provinces such as Khon Kaen and Roi Et. The free testing is available to all Thai citizens aged 15 and older with risk factors, and can be obtained at various participating healthcare units, with further details accessible through the NHSO hotline or the "Paotang" application.
The OV-RDT test provides rapid results within minutes, and those testing positive are advised to seek professional medical advice rather than self-medicating. Early detection, as Dr. Atthaporn noted, is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of more severe health outcomes.
Dr. Atthaporn concluded with reassurance, stating that a positive liver fluke test does not necessarily lead to bile duct cancer, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment to manage the infection effectively.