
World Hepatitis Day: A Call to Eliminate Viral Hepatitis Globally
By Dr. Rakesh Kumar Jagdish in Gastroenterology
Jul 18, 2017
“Get Tested Early – Stay Healthy Longer”
World Hepatitis Day is observed every year on 28th July, uniting people across the globe to raise awareness about viral hepatitis – a silent yet life-threatening disease that affects millions.
What is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis is an inflammatory condition of the liver, most often caused by viral agents including Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Each type is caused by a different virus and affects the liver in distinct ways, ranging from short-term illness to chronic disease. Among these, Hepatitis B and C are the most severe, accounting for nearly 80% of all liver cancer cases worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hepatitis claims approximately 1.34 million lives each year, a death toll comparable to that of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria. What makes hepatitis especially dangerous is its silent progression—many individuals remain unaware of the infection until advanced liver damage has occurred, earning it the reputation of a “silent epidemic.”
Also Read: A Step Toward Healing: Comprehensive Guide to Hepatitis Management and Treatment
How Does Hepatitis Spread?
Although anyone can become infected with hepatitis, certain risk factors significantly increase the likelihood of transmission:
- Hepatitis B and C are primarily transmitted through:
- Infected blood transfusions or contaminated needles
- Unsafe injection practices (including drug use)
- Unprotected sex with an infected partner
- From an infected mother to her newborn during childbirth
Hepatitis A and E usually spread through contaminated food or water, especially in areas with poor sanitation.
Common Symptoms
In acute hepatitis, the following symptoms may appear:
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
- Dark urine, pale stools
- Fatigue, vomiting, fever
- Abdominal discomfort
In chronic hepatitis, symptoms may remain hidden for years, silently damaging the liver and leading to complications like cirrhosis or liver cancer.
Also Read: Top Reasons You May Be at Risk for Liver Diseases
Why Early Testing Matters
Studies show that around 95% of people living with hepatitis are unaware of their infection. Lack of awareness and limited access to testing are the major hurdles in controlling this global health threat.
Early diagnosis is critical – especially because Hepatitis C can now be cured in 3 to 6 months with modern antiviral medications. For Hepatitis B, long-term antiviral therapy can suppress the virus and prevent liver damage.
Global Efforts by WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) has taken significant steps to reduce the global burden of viral hepatitis. Its goals include:
- 30% reduction in new hepatitis B and C cases
- 10% reduction in hepatitis-related mortality by 2020 (now extended further)
Key Strategies Include:
- Expanding hepatitis B vaccination, especially at birth to prevent mother-to-child transmission
- Ensuring blood safety and sterile surgical practices
- Promoting routine screening and testing, especially for high-risk groups
- Improving access to affordable treatment for hepatitis B and C
In 2016, WHO launched dedicated hepatitis testing and treatment guidelines to help countries adopt effective screening protocols.
Also Read: Understanding Acid Reflux and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Theme of the Year: “Eliminate Hepatitis”
Every World Hepatitis Day is centered around a global theme. This year’s theme, “Eliminate Hepatitis,” is a powerful reminder of the global commitment required to defeat this disease. It urges governments, healthcare providers & individuals to work hand-in-hand to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat.
Metro Group of Hospitals: Committed to the Cause
At Metro Group of Hospitals, we are deeply committed to raising awareness, improving access to testing, and ensuring timely treatment for hepatitis patients. Our Gastroenterology and Hepatology teams offer expert care, from vaccination and diagnosis to advanced liver treatments.
If you or a loved one are at risk, don’t wait. Get tested. Get treated. Protect your liver.