(Foreword: This is the continuation of our response to Vic Say on his quest for cure for Hepatitis B.)
DEAR Vic Say,
Moving on. I would like to cite a study done in Australia. This is quite exciting because that cancer drug was able to clear away 100 percent hepatitis B infections in preclinical models. What the researchers did was use a combination of the cancer drug birinapant and the antiviral drug entecavir to completely eliminate hepatitis B infections. Now, if the researchers can duplicate the results in human clinical trials, then the drug may become the first-ever cure to the hepatitis B virus and may serve as a model for treating other viruses, such as HIV and herpes. But, we still have to wait for some years for the results. We have to pray hard for success -- so, humankind can benefit from that someday.
You see drug resistance is an ever-present challenge for doctors when it comes to treating viruses. A virus is such a wise organism. It learns to adapt to drugs and then becomes resistant to their defense. But, new combinations -- like birinapant and entecavir might lead us to a better way of eliminating that threat because the new combination indirectly attacks the virus by changing the way the body responds, this problem will most likely not exist.
But, at the moment, your father can always focus on strengthening his immune system. Make him eat the right foods. Tell him to shy away from foods that would damage his liver -- especially spoiled nuts, corn and deeply grilled foods. Sleep well. Make sure that he sleeps before 11 pm -- so his liver will be able to function better. Avoid lifestyle that could worsen his condition. Avoid alcohol and smoking. Let go of stress.
Good luck!
Dr. Fritz
(Dr. Fritz Legarde Espedilla is an aesthetic dermatologist and surgeon and a clinical sexologist. She is also trained in hypnotherapy and Medical Acupuncture. She is the co-host of digital page of Superbalita. She has been in the broadcast media for more than a decade and has written a book based on her 15 year stint with her radio program, "Healthy is Sexy Secrets ni Dr. Fritz." For your questions, you may e-mail them to dokfritz@yahoo.com. If you don't wish your letter to be published, we regret that we cannot answer them. Thank you for your understanding.)