Urgent Steps Needed to Eradicate Global Hepatitis Crisis
World Hepatitis Day, with the theme One Life, One Liver, is set to create awareness about the prevention of liver cancer, early detection, and available treatment facilities. The focus is on urging authorities to take prompt action to eliminate viral hepatitis and achieve global health targets by 2030.
Viral hepatitis is a major global health concern that claimed 1.34 million lives in 2015, surpassing the death toll of tuberculosis and HIV. Dr. Chalapathi Rao Achanta, Clinical Director and Chief of Department (Gastroenterology), Interventional Endoscopy, and Liver Transplantation at KIMS ICON – Vizag, emphasizes that our liver carries out more than 500 vital functions silently each day to keep us alive. Unfortunately, symptoms of viral hepatitis often only manifest in the advanced stage.
There are various types of hepatitis viruses (A to E), but hepatitis B and E are particularly worrisome as they result in more than 8,000 undetectable new infections daily. In India alone, over 40 million people suffer from chronic Hepatitis B, while 6-12 million individuals are infected with Hepatitis C.
HAV, which is commonly observed in children, poses a significant public health problem. Efforts must be made to combat this issue and generate awareness about the impact of viral hepatitis on society.
The urgency to address the global hepatitis crisis cannot be overstated. Governments, healthcare organizations, and the public must work together to tackle this silent killer. Prevention, early detection, and accessible treatment facilities are crucial in ending the hepatitis epidemic.
By spreading awareness, taking necessary precautions, and encouraging regular screenings, we can significantly reduce the burden of viral hepatitis. Let us strive for a healthier future, where each life is free from the threat of this deadly infection.
Together, we have the power to eradicate global hepatitis and ensure that every person has the opportunity to live a healthy and fulfilling life. One life, one liver – let us unite in our fight against viral hepatitis and make a difference.
Sources:
– World Health Organisation (WHO)
– Dr. Chalapathi Rao Achanta, Clinical Director and Chief of Department (Gastroenterology), Interventional Endoscopy, and Liver Transplantation, KIMS ICON – Vizag
