World hepatitis day is one of the World health organization’s officially mandated global public health days . It is a day when the world comes together to raise awareness of hepatitis, one of the most deadly and neglected diseases and health crises- one that is claiming a life every 30 seconds.
Globally, 354million people live with hepatitis with more than 1.1million lives lost each year to hepatitis B and C. Yet we have tools to eleminate the disease by 2030.
Today , July 28, we raise our collective voices to call for more action for the people affected by hepatitis
‘We’ re not waiting ‘ is the new campaign theme to launch WHD 2023. It highlights the need to accelerate elimination efforts of viral hepatitis and the urgent need of testing and treatment for the real people who need it.
On this day, the aim is to unite the global community to demand action from decision makers to prioritise the elimination of viral hepatitis – one of the most deadly and neglected diseases.
Along this , it will also highlight the social injustice and inequity caused by lack of action on hepatitis elimination and focus on the positive action needed to get on track to meet the 2030 elimination goals
Action can’t wait
– People living with viral hepatitis unaware can’t wait for testing
– People living with hepatitis can’t wait for life savings treatment
– Pregnant mothers can’t wait for hepatitis screening and testing
– Newborn babies can’t wait for birth dose vaccination
– Community organization can’t wait for greater investment
– Decision makers can’t wait and must act now to make hepatitis elimination a reality through political will and funding
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The Numbers
– 354 million living with chronic hepatitis
——-2.3million pple living with HIV and hepatitis C
-2.7million pple living with HIV and hepatitis B
– 1..2 million lives are lost each year to hepatitis B and C
– Only 43% of children receive hepatitis B dose vaccine
– 7% of pple living with TB also live with hepatitis C
Every 30secs someone loses their life to a hepatitis related illness
It is our collective responsibility to raise awareness, dispel myths, and pave the way for a future free from the burden of this silent epidemic
Prevention through Vaccination and Safe Practices
Prevention is possible!
Vaccines and effective treatment exists, offering hope for all.
Vaccination against Hepatitis B are available for both adults and children, it remains the most effective means of prevention.
National immunization programs must be strengthened and expanded to reach vulnerable populations.
Additionally, promoting safe injection practices, ensuring blood safety, and advocating for harm reduction strategies can significantly reduce the transmission of Hepatitis C.
Early Detection: The Key to Timely Intervention
Regular screening and testing are vital to identify individuals living with chronic Hepatitis. By implementing routine screenings, especially for high-risk groups, we can diagnose the infection early, link affected individuals to care, and prevent further transmission.
Access to Treatment and Care
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Universal Health Coverage
Access to affordable and equitable healthcare services is an essential human right. Governments, in collaboration with international organizations, must strive to implement universal health coverage policies that ensure the availability of diagnostics, antiviral therapies which are safe options for curing hepatitis C and reducing the complications of Chronic HBV
Breaking the Silence: Raising Awareness
Awareness is the cornerstone of progress. By fostering open dialogue, dispelling myths, and combating stigma, we empower individuals and communities to take proactive steps towards prevention, testing, and treatment.
Education campaigns, community engagement, and media outreach play pivotal roles in amplifying our collective voice.
This is what NMA Edo state thrives to achieve today.” One life, one liver”
