Liver Cancer Rates Expected to Surge by 55% in Europe, Urgent Action Required for Healthcare
The World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe has issued a press release emphasizing the urgent need to provide healthcare to communities in order to combat the projected 55% increase in liver cancer rates over the next two decades. This call to action comes on the occasion of World Hepatitis Day, bringing attention to the fact that hepatitis, a viral infection primarily affecting the liver, causes over 100,000 deaths annually in the European Region. To eradicate the virus globally by 2030, it is estimated that a 40% reduction in new hepatitis B and C infections worldwide is required.
Hans Kluge, the WHO regional director for Europe, highlighted the severity of the situation, stating, Liver cancer is the third most common cause of cancer death globally, and the major modifiable risk factors are infection with hepatitis B or C virus. However, stigma surrounding hepatitis often prevents people from seeking timely testing, treatment, and support, perpetuating the cycle of infection and posing a challenge to public health efforts. Kluge emphasized the need to create a social environment that supports patients rather than stigmatizing them.
Vaccination serves as a robust defense against hepatitis B, while early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in halting the progression of both hepatitis B and C, according to the WHO. Over the years, effective prevention measures have led to a reduction in disease transmission related to hepatitis B and C. However, Andrea Ammon, director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), expressed concern about the considerable burden of chronic hepatitis B and C infections in the European Union and European Economic Area (EU/EEA), estimating that 5.4 million chronic infections are undiagnosed and not linked to care.
Nino Berdzuli, director of the Division of Country Health Programmes at WHO Europe, stressed that addressing the root causes of hepatitis is essential in preventing the suffering and economic burden associated with hepatitis and liver cancer. She stated, Hepatitis affects millions of lives, families, and communities across the region and globally. By addressing the root causes and implementing effective strategies, we can prevent unnecessary suffering, premature deaths, and the economic burden caused by hepatitis and liver cancer.
The alarming projection of a 55% increase in liver cancer rates in Europe demands urgent attention and action from the healthcare sector. With hepatitis being a major contributing factor to liver cancer, efforts must be intensified to ensure accessible testing, treatment, and support for individuals affected by viral infections. By combatting stigma, promoting vaccination, and enhancing early diagnosis and treatment practices, it is possible to prevent unnecessary suffering and reduce the economic burden associated with hepatitis and liver cancer. The WHO’s call to action serves as a reminder that urgent healthcare measures are needed to tackle this concerning trend and protect the health and well-being of communities across Europe.
