Each year, on July 28, the world comes together to observe World Hepatitis Day—a crucial global initiative aimed at raising awareness about viral hepatitis and its devastating impact on public health. The distressing reality that someone dies from hepatitis or related illnesses every 30 seconds underscores the urgency of this awareness campaign. Hidden in the shadows, viral hepatitis silently claims numerous lives annually, making it imperative to shed light on this deadly threat.
The primary objective of World Hepatitis Day is to mobilize communities worldwide, urging them to take action and support efforts in prevention, testing, and treatment of hepatitis. Originally celebrated on May 19, the date was moved to July 28 in 2010 to honor the birthday of Dr. Baruch Samuel Blumberg, the visionary American physician who revolutionized hepatitis research by discovering Hepatitis B in the 1960s. The World Hepatitis Alliance, established in 2007, played a key role in organizing the first community-driven World Hepatitis Day in 2008, leading to its widespread recognition.
This annual event serves as an opportunity to rally international and national efforts against hepatitis, encouraging individuals, partners, and the public to get involved actively. It highlights the pressing need for a stronger global response, as emphasized in the WHO’s Global Hepatitis Report of 2017. The chosen date of July 28 symbolizes the pioneering contributions of Dr. Baruch Blumberg, whose groundbreaking work led to the discovery of the hepatitis B virus (HBV), paving the way for the development of a diagnostic test and a vaccine for the virus. Central to achieving the global elimination goals for hepatitis by 2030 is addressing the significant gaps in testing and treatment coverage.
World Hepatitis Day emphasizes the importance of expanded immunization, early diagnosis, and enhanced access to healthcare services in the battle against this insidious disease. World Hepatitis Day holds immense significance in increasing public awareness about viral hepatitis and its far-reaching consequences for public health. On this day, communities, politicians, and individuals come together to learn about the various types of hepatitis, preventive strategies, and available testing and treatment options. It fosters global advocacy and collaboration in combating the escalating number of hepatitis-related illnesses and fatalities.
As we unite on World Hepatitis Day, we strengthen the call for a coordinated worldwide response to the WHO’s ambitious goal of eradicating viral hepatitis as a major public health threat by 2030. By raising awareness and stressing the importance of greater immunization, early detection, and improved healthcare access, we take significant strides towards a future free from the burden of hepatitis. Together, we can halt the silent killer in its tracks and ensure a healthier, hepatitis-free world for generations to come.