World Hepatitis Day is being observed today across the globe, including Bangladesh, with the aim of raising global awareness for the elimination of viral hepatitis. The World Hepatitis Alliance (WHA) initiated this observance on July 28, 2008, and the World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledged it in 2011. This year's theme, 'Hepatitis: Let's break it down,' emphasizes removing barriers to care, stopping stigma, and ending misinformation.
In Bangladesh, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called for a coordinated approach to build a hepatitis-free nation by enhancing awareness, prevention, early diagnosis, and ensuring affordable and accessible healthcare. The government is implementing various initiatives to extend specialized healthcare, disseminate technology-based facilities, and ensure healthcare safety for underprivileged people.
The day also highlights the importance of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment facilities for all, eliminating panic and social barriers associated with the disease. Nobel laureate Baruch S. Blumberg, who discovered an antigen that provokes an antibody response against hepatitis B, developed a diagnosis system and introduced vaccination. His birthday on July 28 is recognized as World Hepatitis Day in his honor.
According to the WHO, nearly 10 million people in Bangladesh are suffering from hepatitis B and C, with 20,000 unofficial deaths annually. A significant concern is that nine out of ten people are unaware they carry the hepatitis B and C virus. Globally, hepatitis affects hundreds of millions, causing acute and chronic diseases and resulting in approximately 1.34 million deaths yearly.
Hepatitis can cause acute and chronic liver inflammation and can be fatal. In some countries, hepatitis B is the most common cause of cirrhosis and may lead to liver cancer. The observance of World Hepatitis Day aims to address these critical issues and work towards a healthier future for all.
