July 29, 2024 – Today marks World Hepatitis Day, a global health awareness day dedicated to raising awareness about viral hepatitis and its prevention. Health experts and organizations worldwide are coming together to educate the public about the risks, symptoms, and prevention methods of this debilitating disease.
VIRAL HEPATITIS: A GROWING CONCERN
Viral hepatitis is a liver infection caused by five different viruses: A, B, C, D, and E. These viruses can cause acute and chronic liver disease, liver cancer, and even death. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 354 million people worldwide live with chronic hepatitis B or C, and viral hepatitis is responsible for 1.34 million deaths per year.
KEY FACTS ABOUT VIRAL HEPATITIS
90% of people with hepatitis B and 80% with hepatitis C are unaware of their infection.
Hepatitis B and C are the main causes of liver cancer.
Viral hepatitis can be prevented through vaccination, safe sex practices, and avoiding sharing needles or syringes.
PREVENTION IS KEY
Health experts emphasize the importance of prevention in combating viral hepatitis. “Getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, practicing safe sex, and avoiding sharing needles or syringes are simple yet effective ways to prevent viral hepatitis,” says Dr. [Name], a leading health expert.
RAISING AWARENESS, PROMOTING PREVENTION
On this World Hepatitis Day, health organizations and governments worldwide are launching awareness campaigns and promoting prevention methods. “We need to work together to eliminate viral hepatitis,” says [Name], Director-General of the WHO. “By raising awareness and promoting prevention, we can make a difference and create a hepatitis-free world.”
TAKE ACTION TODAY
Get vaccinated, practice safe sex, and avoid sharing needles or syringes. Get tested for hepatitis B and C, and encourage others to do the same. Together, we can make a difference and create a hepatitis-free world.
