World Hepatitis Day

World Hepatitis Day History

World Hepatitis Day is an annual global observance aimed at raising awareness about viral hepatitis and encouraging people to take preventive measures and seek timely testing and treatment. This event brings together governments, medical professionals, and communities to address hepatitis - a group of diseases that include Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. The observance is critical in enhancing public knowledge, reducing stigma, and promoting research collaborations to eventually eradicate this significant global health threat.

In India, viral hepatitis, particularly Hepatitis B and C, constitutes a significant public health issue, with millions affected by these diseases. The Indian government launched the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program (NVHCP) in 2018, which aims to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health concern by 2030. The program offers free diagnosis, treatment, and counseling to affected individuals, while also prioritizing prevention through community education and mass vaccination drives. On World Hepatitis Day, stakeholders in India emphasize the importance of embracing the national program's objectives and raise awareness about the availability of these healthcare resources.

To commemorate World Hepatitis Day in India, various events are organized across the country, including seminars, health camps, and awareness campaigns. These events engage local communities, non-governmental organizations, and healthcare professionals to spread knowledge about viral hepatitis, debunk myths, and encourage adoption of preventive measures like vaccination and safe practices. World Hepatitis Day is observed on July 28.

World Hepatitis Day facts

• The theme for World Hepatitis Day in 2023 was Don't miss the target.
• The first reported case of hepatitis after a blood transfusion was in 1938 by R. Junet and W. Junet in the Revue Médicale Suisse.
• Hepatitis B and C are the leading causes of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer in India, as they account for 50-60% of chronic liver diseases and around 60% of liver cancer cases in the country.
• One of the major reasons for the high prevalence of Hepatitis in India is unsafe blood transfusions and use of unsterilized medical equipment.

In the News and Trending in India for World Hepatitis Day

Top things to do in India for World Hepatitis Day

• Get tested for Hepatitis. Many people have it but go undiagnosed.
• Donate to help raise awareness about hepatitis.
• Watch Hepatitis in India: The Harsh Reality by the World Hepatitis Alliance. This short documentary highlights the challenges faced by people suffering from Hepatitis in India, the impact of the disease on their lives, and the need for action to improve the situation.
• Read a book to learn more about the threat of Hepatitis in India. Here are some suggestions:
  1. Hepatitis and Liver Diseases in India: Problems and Prevention by Ramesh S. Arora
  2. Viral Hepatitis in India: A report from the Australia-India Council by Dr. Rakesh Aggarwal
  3. Hepatitis B in India: Prevalence, Transmission and Prevention by Gagandeep Kang and Mandeep Chattwal