Every year on 28th July, the world unites to observe World Hepatitis Day, a crucial global health campaign initiated by the World Health Organization (WHO). This day aims to raise awareness about the global burden of viral hepatitis, which causes over 1.1 million deaths annually, and promote prevention, testing, and treatment.
Hepatitis remains a silent epidemic, particularly in developing countries. The slogan for World Hepatitis Day 2025, “Hepatitis Can’t Wait,” emphasizes the urgent need for action. This blog explores the significance, causes, symptoms, types, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and global efforts surrounding hepatitis.
What is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis refers to the inflammation of the liver, often caused by a viral infection, though it can also result from alcohol use, drugs, toxins, or autoimmune diseases. The liver plays a vital role in metabolism, detoxification, and nutrient storage. When inflamed, its ability to function declines, leading to severe health issues.
Types of Hepatitis Viruses
There are five primary hepatitis viruses known as types A, B, C, D, and E. Each varies in transmission methods, severity, and treatment approaches.
1. Hepatitis A (HAV)
- Cause: Contaminated food or water (fecal-oral route)
- Acute or Chronic: Always acute
- Symptoms: Fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, jaundice
- Prevention: Vaccination, hygiene, clean water
2. Hepatitis B (HBV)
- Cause: Blood, semen, and body fluids
- Acute or Chronic: Both
- Symptoms: Liver failure, cirrhosis, cancer (in chronic cases)
- Prevention: Vaccination, safe sex, sterilized medical equipment
3. Hepatitis C (HCV)
- Cause: Blood-to-blood contact
- Acute or Chronic: Mostly chronic
- Symptoms: Silent progression to cirrhosis or liver cancer
- Prevention: No vaccine; avoid needle sharing, test before transfusions
4. Hepatitis D (HDV)
- Cause: Only occurs in people with HBV
- Acute or Chronic: Both
- Symptoms: More severe than HBV alone
- Prevention: Prevent HBV infection
5. Hepatitis E (HEV)
- Cause: Fecal-contaminated water (like HAV)
- Acute or Chronic: Mostly acute
- Symptoms: Jaundice, fatigue, nausea
- Prevention: Safe drinking water, sanitation
According to the WHO Global Hepatitis Report, an estimated 354 million people live with chronic hepatitis B and C. The disease leads to more deaths annually than HIV and tuberculosis, yet receives far less attention and funding.
Key Global Statistics:
- 1.34 million deaths annually (2019)
- 296 million with chronic HBV
- 58 million with chronic HCV
- Less than 10% of people with viral hepatitis are diagnosed
Causes and Risk Factors
Viral Transmission Methods:
- Unsafe blood transfusions
- Unprotected sexual contact
- Shared needles (especially among drug users)
- Mother-to-child transmission
- Poor hygiene and sanitation
Non-Viral Causes:
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Obesity-related liver disease
- Autoimmune disorders
- Long-term use of toxic medications
Symptoms of Hepatitis
Hepatitis is often called a “silent killer” because early symptoms are mild or absent. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Yellowing of eyes and skin (jaundice)
- Fatigue and weakness
- Abdominal pain (especially upper right side)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Dark urine and pale stools
Diagnosis of Hepatitis
Timely and accurate diagnosis is key. Common tests include:
- Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
- Hepatitis virus antigen and antibody tests
- PCR tests (to detect viral RNA/DNA)
- Ultrasound or liver biopsy (for chronic liver damage)
Treatment and Management
Hepatitis A & E:
- No specific treatment; self-resolves
- Supportive care: hydration, rest
Hepatitis B:
- Antiviral medications (e.g., tenofovir, entecavir)
- Regular monitoring for liver function and cancer
Hepatitis C:
- Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) offer cure in 8–12 weeks
- WHO recommends early screening
Hepatitis D:
- Pegylated interferon therapy
- Requires HBV management
Prevention Strategies
1. Vaccination
- Effective vaccines available for Hepatitis A and B
- Universal childhood vaccination recommended
2. Safe Practices
- Use sterilized needles and syringes
- Practice safe sex
- Ensure screened blood transfusions
3. Hygiene and Sanitation
- Handwashing with soap
- Clean water access
- Safe food preparation
4. Awareness Campaigns
- Educating communities about risks and symptoms
- Encouraging regular screening
World Hepatitis Day: History and Significance
Why July 28?
The date commemorates the birthday of Dr. Baruch Samuel Blumberg, who discovered the Hepatitis B virus and developed its vaccine.
Objectives of the Day:
- Increase awareness about hepatitis
- Promote testing and treatment
- Highlight WHO’s global elimination goals by 2030
- Reduce stigma through education
World Health Organization Goals
In 2016, WHO set the goal to eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.
Target Milestones:
- 90% reduction in new infections
- 65% reduction in hepatitis-related deaths
- 90% of infected individuals diagnosed
- 80% of eligible people receiving treatment
Role of Governments and NGOs
Global Initiatives:
- Hepatitis B vaccination programs
- Free screening clinics
- Awareness drives through TV, social media, and print
- Partnerships with NGOs like the World Hepatitis Alliance
India’s Fight Against Hepatitis:
- National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP) launched in 2018
- Targets screening and treating 5 crore people
- Integrates hepatitis services into primary healthcare
Digital Tools and Innovations
- Hepatitis B Tracker Apps
- AI-based diagnostic tools for early liver damage detection
- Mobile-based awareness campaigns in rural regions
- Lack of awareness in low-income populations
- High treatment costs (especially for Hepatitis C)
- Stigma and misinformation
- Weak healthcare infrastructure in rural areas
What Can You Do?
You don’t need to be a doctor to make a difference. Here's how you can help:
- Get vaccinated if eligible
- Encourage testing for family members
- Share facts on social media
- Volunteer with health NGOs
- Avoid sharing personal grooming items (razors, toothbrushes)
World Hepatitis Day is not just a date—it's a movement for global health equity. As hepatitis silently threatens millions, awareness, vaccination, early testing, and policy-level support are our best weapons. Let's join hands in this global cause to eradicate hepatitis by 2030.
Remember: Hepatitis can’t wait—Act now. Test now. Treat now.