Date Added: 26/07/2019
World Hepatitis Day, Sunday July 28th 2019, is our chance to bring the world together to raise awareness of a disease that kills 1.34 million people a year.
We are working alongside the Hepatitis C Trust as an opportunity to join together and raise the profile of viral hepatitis among the public, the world’s media and on the global health agenda.
One of just four disease-specific global awareness days officially endorsed by the World Health Organisation (WHO), WHD unites patient organisations, governments, medical professionals, civil society, industry and the general public to boost the global profile of viral hepatitis.
WHY IS WORLD HEPATITIS DAY IMPORTANT?
Viral hepatitis is one of the leading causes of death globally, accounting for 1.34 million deaths per year – that’s as many as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis or malaria. Together, hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C cause 80% of liver cancer cases in the world.
Viral hepatitis is not found in one location nor amongst one set of people; it is a truly global epidemic that can affect millions of people without them even being aware. Currently, 90% of people living with hepatitis B and 80% living with hepatitis C are not aware of their status. This can result in the real possibility of developing fatal liver disease at some point in their lives and in some cases, unknowingly transmitting the infection to others.
With the availability of effective vaccines and treatments for hepatitis B and a cure for hepatitis C, the elimination of viral hepatitis is achievable, but greater awareness and understanding of the disease and the risks is a must, as is access to cheaper diagnostics and treatment.
If you want to get rid of your HEPATITIS C, come and see the Liver Nurses. Click for more details.
