“Hepatitis Can’t Wait” – Raising Global Awareness
Every year on July 28, the world marks World Hepatitis Day to increase awareness about viral hepatitis — a silent but deadly disease that affects over 350 million people worldwide.
What is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, often caused by a viral infection. The five main types of viral hepatitis are:
- Hepatitis A – spread through contaminated food or water
- Hepatitis B – transmitted via blood, sexual contact, or childbirth
- Hepatitis C – mainly spread through blood
- Hepatitis D – occurs only with hepatitis B co-infection
- Hepatitis E – spread through contaminated water
These infections can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer if left untreated.
Why It Matters
- 1.1 million people die each year from hepatitis-related causes
- 9 out of 10 people with hepatitis are unaware of their condition
- Hepatitis B and C cause the majority of chronic infections and deaths
- Vaccines and treatments exist, but access and awareness are still limited
Prevention and Action
- Get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B
- Get tested—especially if you were born before 1965 or have risk factors
- Practice safe hygiene and avoid sharing needles or personal items
Seek treatment—hepatitis C is now curable, and hepatitis B can be manage
