The World Hepatitis Alliance reports:
- The most typical cause of hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver, is a viral infection.
- Hepatitis viruses come in five different types: A, B, C, D, and E.
- The burden of sickness and mortality they bring along with the potential for breakouts and epidemic transmission make these five varieties the most concerning.
- A viral hepatitis-related disease claims the life of a person every 30 seconds. It is crucial to get evaluated and undergo treatment in light of the current preventative measures.
Every year on 28 July, the globe comes together under the banner of globe Hepatitis Day (WHD) to raise awareness of the burden of viral hepatitis across the world and to effect lasting change. Our theme for this year is "We're not waiting." "Accelerate viral hepatitis elimination efforts now and the urgent need for testing and treatment for the real people who need it," reads the WHD 2023 call to action. Around the world, people and communities are bringing about change in their own lives and the environment. While praising them, we call for further action. WHD is one of only four disease-specific global awareness days that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has formally recognised. To raise awareness of viral hepatitis worldwide, WHD brings together patient organisations, governments, medical specialists, civil society, business, and the general public.
Why should we acknowledge World Hepatitis Day?
One of the main causes of death worldwide, viral hepatitis causes 1.34 million deaths annually, more than HIV/AIDS, TB, or malaria combined. 80% of liver cancer cases worldwide are caused by the hepatitis B and C viruses when they are combined.
Viral hepatitis is a really worldwide disease that can infect millions of people without their knowledge. It is not just present in one place or among one group of individuals.
90% of those with hepatitis B and 80% of those with hepatitis C do not now know their condition. Due to this, there is a significant chance that they may have deadly liver illness at some time in their life and, in some situations, unintentionally spread the infection to others.
The eradication of viral hepatitis is feasible because to the availability of effective hepatitis B vaccinations, treatments, and a cure, as well as a therapy for hepatitis C. However, increased knowledge of the illness, its hazards, and access to less expensive diagnostics and treatment are required. We are at a turning point in the fight against viral hepatitis thanks to the inclusion of the disease in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the recent approval of the first global hepatitis strategy. The need for political commitment is more than ever. Without prompt intervention, the number of fatalities and the spread of the disease would both increase.
The occasion provided by World Hepatitis Day is appropriate for raising awareness of viral hepatitis among the general public, in the media, and on the global health agenda. Viral hepatitis must be eradicated right away.
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