World Hepatitis Day 2023: One Life, One Liver
World Hepatitis Day
was established by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2010 , World Hepatitis Day is observed each year on July 28 to raise awareness of viral hepatitis, a group of liver infections that can cause inflammation, liver damage, and liver cancer. The day provides an opportunity to educate people about the global burden of hepatitis and its preventable nature. This day also commemorates the birthday of Nobel-prize-winning scientist Dr. Baruch Samuel Blumberg, who discovered the hepatitis B virus.
The theme for World Hepatitis Day 2023 is “One Life, One Liver.” This theme highlights the importance of the liver for a healthy life, and the need to scale up viral hepatitis prevention, testing, and treatment to optimize liver health, prevent liver disease, and achieve the 2030 hepatitis elimination goals.
What is viral hepatitis?
Viral hepatitis is caused by five different viruses: hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. These viruses can spread through contact with blood, body fluids, or contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis A is usually a mild illness that goes away on its own. However, it can be serious in people with weakened immune systems.
Hepatitis B is a more serious infection that can become chronic. Chronic hepatitis B can lead to liver damage, liver cancer, and death.
Hepatitis C is the most common type of viral hepatitis. It can also become chronic, and can lead to liver damage, liver cancer, and death.
Hepatitis D is a liver infection that only occurs in people who are already infected with hepatitis B. It is a very serious infection that can lead to liver failure.
Hepatitis E is usually a mild illness that goes away on its own. However, it can be serious in pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.
Statistics on viral hepatitis
- According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are 291 million people living with chronic hepatitis B and 71 million people living with chronic hepatitis C.
- Every year, 1.34 million people die from hepatitis-related causes.
- Hepatitis B and C are the leading causes of liver cancer.
- Hepatitis B can be prevented by vaccination. There is no vaccine for hepatitis C, but there are effective treatments that can cure the infection.
How to protect yourself from viral hepatitis
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis B.
- Practice safe sex.
- Use clean needles when injecting drugs.
- Avoid contact with blood and body fluids.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water.
What to do if you think you have been exposed to viral hepatitis
- See your doctor right away.
- Get tested for hepatitis B and C.
- If you are diagnosed with hepatitis B or C, get treatment.
How to get involved in World Hepatitis Day
- Learn more about viral hepatitis.
- Talk to your friends and family about viral hepatitis.
- Get tested for hepatitis B and C.
- Support organizations that are working to eliminate viral hepatitis.
Together, we can eliminate viral hepatitis.
Table of statistics on viral hepatitis
| Virus | Number Of People Living With Chronic Infection | Number Of Deaths Per Year |
| Hepatitis B | 291 million | 887,000 |
| Hepatitis C | 71 million | 475,000 |
| Hepatitis D | 15 to 25 million | 100,000 |
| Hepatitis E | 200 to 400 million | 50,000 |
How to Participate in World Hepatitis Day 2023
Getting involved in World Hepatitis Day 2023 is essential to make a difference. Here are some ways to participate:
Spreading Awareness on Social Media
Use your social media platforms to share information about World Hepatitis Day, facts about hepatitis, prevention methods, and the importance of getting tested. Utilize hashtags such as #WorldHepatitisDay and #HepatitisAwareness to reach a broader audience.
Getting Involved Locally
Support local events organized by healthcare institutions, nonprofits, or government agencies. Participate in health screenings, vaccination drives, and educational workshops to raise awareness in your community
FAQs
Q1: Can hepatitis be cured?
Yes, some forms of hepatitis, such as hepatitis C, can be cured with appropriate antiviral treatments.
Q2: Is there a vaccine for hepatitis?
Yes, vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B, providing effective protection against these infections.
Q3: Who is at higher risk of contracting hepatitis?
Individuals who engage in unprotected sex, use intravenous drugs, or work in healthcare settings with potential exposure to infected blood are at higher risk.
Q4: How can I get tested for hepatitis?
Consult a healthcare professional who can perform blood tests to check for hepatitis infections.
Q5: How does hepatitis impact pregnant women?
Hepatitis E infection during pregnancy can lead to severe outcomes for both the mother and the baby. Pregnant women should take precautions to avoid the virus.
I hope this article has helped you learn more about World Hepatitis Day 2023 and viral hepatitis. Please share this article with your friends and family to help raise awareness of this important issue.