(Web Desk) - World Hepatitis Day is observed annually on July 28 to increase worldwide awareness about viral hepatitis.
A group of infectious diseases known as hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, these diseases affects millions of people worldwide, leading to severe liver damage, liver cancer, and even death. Hepatitis continues to be a silent killer; thus, preventing hepatitis starts with awareness and action.
Hepatitis awareness day is an opportunity to promote preventive measures, encourage testing and treatment, besides strengthen political and public health commitment towards hepatitis elimination.
Together, we can create a future where hepatitis is no longer a silent epidemic but a disease of the past.
HEPATITIS DAY THEME
"Hepatitis: Let's Break It Down", underscores a critical call to break the barriers that obstruct the global fight against hepatitis transmission. This includes systemic challenges like fragmented healthcare services, social obstacles such as stigma and lack of awareness, and financial constraints that limit access to affordable treatment.
By focusing on simplifying hepatitis-related services, the theme aims to scale up and integrate essential healthcare interventions such as vaccination, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and education on liver health issues.
According to the WHO, an estimated three hundred million people globally live with chronic hepatitis B and C, with the vast majority unaware of their infection. Each year, over one million people die from hepatitis-related complications, particularly liver cancer and cirrhosis, due to a lack of hepatitis testing and diagnosis.
As we mark World Hepatitis Day 2025, let us commit to simplifying access, scaling up prevention and treatment, and integrating hepatitis care into routine health systems. Here are key steps individuals and communities can take to reduce transmission and protect liver health:
VACCINATION IS A MUST
One of the most crucial steps to prevent yourself is to get vaccinated. This is very important, especially if you are in a high-risk group. Infants must be given the hepatitis B vaccine within twenty-four hours of birth, and all adults should be vaccinated against hepatitis A and B.
SAFE PRACTICES ARE THE KEY
Avoid sharing needles, razors, or toothbrushes, even with close family members. Use sterile equipment for tattoos and piercings. Practice safe sex to reduce the risk of transmission.
FOOD AND WATER SAFETY
Contaminated food or water is a primary cause of Hepatitis A and E. Therefore, you must wash your hands regularly and consume food from hygienic sources.
TESTING, TIMELY TREATMENT
Get tested, especially if you have risk factors like a history of blood transfusions before 1992, drug use, or a family history of hepatitis. Seek prompt treatment if diagnosed. New antiviral therapies can cure hepatitis C and manage hepatitis B effectively.