World Hepatitis Day: Accelerate Hepatitis Testing and Treatment
World Hepatitis Day is observed on July 28 every year to raise awareness about viral hepatitis and encourage testing and treatment.
Hepatitis is a viral infection that affects the liver and can lead to serious health problems, including liver cancer and cirrhosis.
An estimated 290 million people worldwide are living with viral hepatitis, but many are unaware of their status.
Testing and treatment are essential to prevent the spread of hepatitis and reduce the burden of the disease.
WHO has set a goal to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.
To achieve this goal, WHO recommends scaling up testing and treatment services, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
WHO also calls for increased investment in hepatitis prevention, including vaccination, harm reduction, and health education.
Innovative approaches, such as community-based testing and telemedicine, can help to reach more people with hepatitis testing and treatment.
Governments, health organizations, and civil society must work together to accelerate progress towards the elimination of viral hepatitis.
On World Hepatitis Day, individuals can also take action by getting tested for hepatitis, getting vaccinated, and spreading awareness about the importance of testing and treatment.