World Hepatitis Day is observed annually on July 28 to raise awareness of viral hepatitis and its impact on global health. The primary goal is to support those affected by hepatitis and promote prevention, testing, and treatment. Viral hepatitis remains a silent killer, claiming many lives each year.
Importance of Prevention
As we know, prevention is always better than cure. Hepatitis has simple preventive measures, such as:
- Avoid drinking contaminated food or water.
- Ensure raw food is thoroughly cleaned or cooked before consumption.
- Avoid eating food from outside during the rainy season.
World Hepatitis Day 2024: Theme
“It’s time to act” is the theme for World Hepatitis Day 2024. This theme emphasizes providing high-quality services, identifying hepatitis D through established testing protocols, and improving diagnostics.
What is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by various factors, including alcohol consumption, certain medications, autoimmune disorders, and viral infections. The most common types of viral hepatitis are A, B, C, D, and E, each with its transmission modes and health effects.
Hepatitis: The World’s 2nd Most Deadly Infectious Disease
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that about 304 million people worldwide live with hepatitis B or C. Testing and treatment remain out of reach for much of the population. According to WHO, “Viral hepatitis is the second leading infectious cause of death globally, with 1.3 million deaths per year – the same as tuberculosis. Of these, 83% are caused by hepatitis B and 17% by hepatitis C.”
World Hepatitis Day: History
World Hepatitis Day is observed on July 28 to raise awareness of hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. This date commemorates the birthday of Dr. Baruch Blumberg, the Nobel Laureate who discovered the hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the 1960s and developed a diagnostic test and vaccine.
Initially, this day was observed on May 19 but was moved to July 28 in 2010. The first community-driven World Hepatitis Day was organized in 2008 by the World Hepatitis Alliance, established in 2007.
Symptoms of Hepatitis
Common hepatitis symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Dark urine
- Clay-colored stools
- Pain and inflammation
- Weight loss
- Jaundice
- Weakness
Symptoms vary based on an individual’s liver condition, personal health, age, and immunity. In early stages of hepatitis B and C, symptoms may be absent, leading to liver failure and, in severe cases, death.
Treatment Options
Hepatitis A: Most cases do not require treatment, and recovery is usually complete without permanent liver damage.
Hepatitis B: Antiviral medicines can manage chronic hepatitis B, but there is no cure. A vaccine is available.
Hepatitis C: Most cases can be treated with antiviral medications. Early treatment and regular screenings are essential.
Hepatitis D: There is no specific antiviral treatment. Managing the infection is crucial.
Hepatitis E: Most cases resolve on their own, but severe cases may require hospitalization.
Conclusion
World Hepatitis Day 2024 calls for global action to eliminate viral hepatitis and improve the lives of those affected. By raising awareness, promoting prevention, and supporting testing and treatment, we can work towards a future free of hepatitis.
World Hepatitis Day 2024 serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing fight against hepatitis and the importance of global health initiatives. Let’s act together to prevent, test, and treat hepatitis effectively.
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