Each year 28th July, observed as World Hepatitis Day, reminds us of our ongoing battle against Viral Hepatitis. This year’s theme “It’s Time for action” emphasises the urgent need for concerted efforts to combat this silent epidemic.

Hepatitis, the inflammation of the liver, is a major public health concern affecting millions worldwide. Viral Hepatitis, especially Hepatitis B and C are leading causes of liver cirrhosis and cancer contributing to significant mortality and morbidity across the globe. Despite achieving several advancements in treatment and prevention many remain unaware of the infection leading to delayed diagnosis and enhanced transmission.

Viral Hepatitis Simplified
Hepatitis often results from viral infections. The five main types of hepatitis viruses responsible are Hepatitis A, B, C, D and E, each having peculiar modes of transmission and clinical course.

Hepatitis A / E – Transmitted via contaminated food and water. Usually causes mild infections which resolves on its own.

Hepatitis B – Spreads via body fluids like blood, semen etc. The most common mode is mother-to-child transmission (perinatal ). It causes chronic infection leading to liver cirrhosis and cancer. Effective Hepatitis B vaccine is the key to prevent this deadly virus.

Hepatitis C: It is also transmitted via blood and body fluids. It also causes chronic infection leading to liver cirrhosis and cancer. Highly effective treatment at affordable cost is now available to cure the infection.

Hepatitis D: Infection occurs only in Hepatitis B-infected persons. Hepatitis B vaccine also protects against this virus.

WHO theme 2024 - "It's Time for Action" – The 2024 Theme

This year's theme aligns with WHO's target of eliminating viral hepatitis as a public threat by 2030. The theme "It's Time for Action focuses on the need for comprehensive efforts and effective actions by individuals, society, healthcare providers and the government which includes:

• Public awareness – Lack of awareness about viral hepatitis, its modes of transmission and available preventive measures remains a major barrier. Launching a public health care awareness campaign will help in reducing the burden of the disease and improving the outcome for those affected
• Addressing the stigma – Stigma associated with Hepatitis, particularly B and C can deter individuals from seeking testing and treatment. Addressing the stigma through public education, community engagement and advocacy efforts is the need of the hour
• Access to healthcare and support services – Strengthening healthcare systems to deliver comprehensive hepatitis services requires capacity building for healthcare providers, improving laboratory infrastructure, offering provision of decentralised testing and integrating hepatitis care into the existing services. Telemedicine and mobile healthcare technologies can be utilised to expand access to testing and treatment in remote areas
• Targeted screening programmes – Implementation of screening programmes for high-risk populations such as people who inject drugs, homosexuals, prisoners, and those with a history of unsafe surgeries for accelerating timely diagnosis.
• Monitoring and Evaluation – Implementation of robust monitoring and evaluation systems are required to track the testing and treatment uptake, identify barriers and implement strategies as needed to optimise the outcome.
• Promoting vaccination – Although effective vaccines are available for Hepatitis A and B, achieving high vaccination coverage across India remains a challenge. Ensuring vaccine availability and overcoming vaccine hesitancy are essential components for upscaling vaccination coverage.

Let us seize this opportunity on World Hepatitis Day 2024 to raise awareness, inspire action and work towards a future free of viral hepatitis. IT IS TIME TO ACT!!! – because together, we have the power to make a difference.