World Hepatitis Day 2025: Importance of Timely Screening

World Hepatitis Day, observed annually on July 28, aims to raise global awareness about viral hepatitis, a group of infectious diseases that affect millions worldwide, a group of infectious diseases that affect millions worldwide, a group of infectious diseases that affect millions worldwide, a group of infectious diseases that affect millions worldwide. This day serves as a call to educate people about the importance of timely screening and early intervention in the fight against hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. By shedding light on this often-overlooked health issue, World Hepatitis Day seeks to encourage individuals to prioritise their liver health and take proactive steps towards prevention and management.

Understanding Hepatitis and Its Global Impact

Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, commonly caused by viral infections known as hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Among these, hepatitis B and C are the most serious and often lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer if left untreated. Globally, over 350 million people live with chronic hepatitis infections, and millions are newly infected each year, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The disease contributes to over 1.1 million deaths annually, making it a major but often overlooked public health threat.

Despite being preventable and treatable, hepatitis remains underdiagnosed due to limited awareness, poor access to healthcare, and stigma. The widespread burden of hepatitis strains healthcare systems and deepens health inequalities. Understanding the scope of this disease is critical to developing effective public health strategies and encouraging early screening and timely treatment.

What is World Hepatitis Day?

World Hepatitis Day is celebrated every year on July 28, coinciding with the birthday of Nobel Laureate Dr. Baruch Blumberg, who discovered the hepatitis B virus. First observed in 2008, this day aims to:

• Raise global awareness about viral hepatitis
• Advocate for better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment
• Honour those affected by hepatitis and remember lives lost
• Mobilise resources and drive action towards eliminating hepatitis

Through education, screening campaigns, and community events, World Hepatitis Day strives to put hepatitis in the spotlight and spur progress against this often-overlooked disease.

The Critical Role of Timely Screening

Early detection through timely screening plays a pivotal role in the effective management of hepatitis. Screening typically involves blood tests that detect the presence of viral antibodies or antigens, indicating a current or past infection. Here's why screening is so crucial:

• Early diagnosis: Screening helps identify hepatitis infections in their early stages, often before symptoms appear, allowing for prompt intervention.
• Preventive measures: For individuals who test negative, screening provides an opportunity to educate them about preventive measures such as vaccination (for hepatitis A and B).
• Treatment initiation: Early diagnosis enables the timely initiation of antiviral treatments, which can prevent the progression of hepatitis to more severe liver diseases.

Screening is particularly important for high-risk groups, including healthcare workers, people who inject drugs, and those with multiple sexual partners.

Types of Hepatitis and Screening Recommendations

The screening approach varies depending on the type of hepatitis:

• Hepatitis A and E: Routine screening is generally not recommended unless you're in a high-risk group, such as travellers to endemic areas or individuals with chronic liver disease.
• Hepatitis B: Screening is crucial for pregnant women, healthcare workers, people with multiple sexual partners, and those from regions with high hepatitis B prevalence. Chronic hepatitis B requires regular monitoring.
• Hepatitis C: The CDC recommends one-time screening for all adults and regular testing for those with ongoing risk factors like injection drug use. Baby boomers born between 1945-1965 are also advised to get tested.
• Hepatitis D: If you have hepatitis B, your doctor may recommend screening for hepatitis D as well, since it can only occur as a co-infection.

Discuss your individual risk factors with your doctor to determine the appropriate screening plan for you.

Barriers to Early Screening and Diagnosis

Despite the clear benefits of timely screening, several barriers hinder early diagnosis:

• Limited access to healthcare facilities and screening services in certain regions.
• Lack of awareness about hepatitis and the importance of screening among the general population.
• Social stigma associated with hepatitis prevents people from seeking testing or treatment.
• Financial constraints and inadequate health insurance coverage for screening tests.

Global and National Efforts to Promote Screening

On World Hepatitis Day and beyond, global and national organisations work tirelessly to promote hepatitis screening. The World Health Organisation (WHO) spearheads efforts to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. Governments and healthcare systems around the world are implementing strategies to increase access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment services.

In India, the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program aims to provide free screening and treatment for hepatitis B and C. Awareness campaigns, vaccination drives, and the establishment of dedicated hepatitis clinics are some of the key initiatives undertaken to combat the disease.

Steps Everyone Can Take to Support Screening Efforts

As individuals, we all have a role to play in supporting hepatitis screening efforts:

• Get screened if you're at risk or haven't been tested.
• Encourage family and friends to undergo testing and seek medical advice.
• Share reliable information on social media to raise awareness.
• Support local health campaigns and vaccination drives.
• Advocate for better healthcare access in underserved communities.
• Reduce stigma by talking openly about hepatitis and its prevention.

Conclusion

World Hepatitis Day serves as a powerful reminder of the need for timely screening and global action against viral hepatitis. By detecting hepatitis early, we can prevent life-threatening complications and break the chain of transmission. Remember, a simple blood test can be the first step towards protecting your liver health.

If you're unsure about your hepatitis status or have concerns, reach out to a trusted healthcare provider. Metropolis Healthcare, a leading chain of diagnostic labs across India, offers accurate hepatitis testing and convenient at-home sample collection. With the right knowledge, medical support, and a proactive approach, you can take charge of your hepatitis risk and pave the way for a healthier future.

Also Read: Hepatitis Treatment and Types - Signs, Symptoms, and Causes