As we mark World Hepatitis Day on July 28, 2025, it is vital to acknowledge that viral hepatitis remains a persistent global health threat. Despite the availability of effective vaccines and curative treatments, 1.3 million people die annually due to hepatitis-related complications—a burden comparable to that of tuberculosis and greater than HIV-related mortality in several regions. The theme for this year, “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down”, is a call to action to eliminate financial, social, and systemic obstacles that continue to hinder progress toward hepatitis elimination and liver cancer prevention.
Global Burden of Disease
Hepatitis impacts more than 304 million people globally—approximately 254 million with hepatitis B and 50 million with hepatitis C. Roughly 3,500 people die each day, predominantly from cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, with hepatitis B responsible for 83% of related deaths.
India’s Local Burden: A Global Concern
India accounts for 11.6% of global hepatitis cases, with about 29.8 million living with hepatitis B and 5.5 million with hepatitis C. Prevalence rates range from 2%–4% nationally, with significantly higher levels (up to 15.9%) among tribal populations. Most cases affect men (58%), particularly in the 30–54 age group, a demographic critical to the country's economic productivity.
Despite this burden, diagnostic rates remain critically low: only 2.4% of hepatitis B and 28% of hepatitis C cases are diagnosed, and treatment coverage is even lower—0% and 21%, respectively 4. In 2022, India reported 123,000 hepatitis-related deaths 4, primarily due to ongoing transmission via mother-to-child routes, unsafe medical practices, and exposure among high-risk groups.
Theme Focus: Dismantling Key Barriers
- Financial barriers: Despite reduced costs of antiviral agents, many patients in low- and middle-income countries still face unaffordable treatment options. Governments must expand insurance coverage and negotiate pricing mechanisms to improve access.
- Social stigma: Misconceptions about transmission—especially links to drug use and sexual activity—result in marginalization and delays in care-seeking. Community education and confidential testing pathways are essential.
- Systemic limitations: Fragmented services and inadequate infrastructure must be addressed through decentralized, integrated care models embedded in primary healthcare systems.
What Patients Can Do: A Public Health Guide
Testing and Diagnosis
- Individuals at higher risk (e.g., healthcare workers, IV drug users, those with multiple sexual partners) should undergo annual testing.
- All adults ≥18 years and pregnant women should be screened at least once.
Vaccination
- The Hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective, recommended at 0, 1, and 6 months.
- All newborns should receive the birth dose within 24 hours.
Safe Practices
- Avoid sharing razors, toothbrushes, or injection equipment.
- Ensure sterile medical procedures and practice safe sex.
Liver Health & Lifestyle
- Avoid alcohol, maintain a healthy body weight, eat a balanced diet, and control diabetes.
- Avoid excessive paracetamol and unverified herbal products.
Treatment & Monitoring
- Hepatitis C is curable in 8–12 weeks using DAAs with >95% success.
- Hepatitis B, while not curable, can be effectively managed with long-term antivirals.
India’s National Response
The National Viral Hepatitis Control Program (NVHCP), launched in 2018, has made critical strides:
- 103.4 million individuals screened
- 330,000 patients treated
- 711 districts with treatment facilities
However, substantial scaling up is required to meet the 2030 elimination goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is hepatitis, and how does it affect the liver?
- Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, most commonly caused by viruses (types A–E). If untreated, it can progress to fibrosis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.
- How can I know if I have hepatitis if there are no symptoms?
- Most chronic hepatitis infections are asymptomatic for years. Diagnosis is only possible through blood tests. Routine screening is essential.
- Is hepatitis curable or treatable?
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- Hepatitis C is curable in over 95% of cases.
- Hepatitis B is manageable with antivirals.
- Hepatitis A & E usually resolve on their own.
- Is the hepatitis B vaccine safe during pregnancy?
- Yes. It is safe for both mother and newborn, and early immunization offers >95% protection.
- Can I transmit hepatitis through casual contact?
- No. Hugging, kissing, sharing meals, or using the same toilet does not transmit hepatitis B or C.
- How frequently should I be tested?
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- High-risk individuals: annually
- Others: every 3–5 years
- Pregnant women: once per pregnancy
- What dietary guidelines should I follow if I have hepatitis?
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- Eat whole grains, vegetables, fruits.
- Avoid alcohol and processed foods.
- Maintain a healthy weight and hydration.
- Consult your doctor before taking supplements.
- Can I donate blood if I have hepatitis?
- No, not if you have active hepatitis B or C.
- How can I protect my newborn if I have hepatitis B?
- Your baby should receive both the vaccine and immunoglobulin within 12 hours of birth. Follow-up testing at 9–12 months is crucial.
- Are natural treatments effective for hepatitis?
- There is no scientific evidence supporting herbal or alternative remedies. Some can harm the liver or interfere with prescribed medications.
This educational content is authored by Dr. Md. Nadeem Parvez (MD, DM – PGIMER Chandigarh), HOD, Dept. of Gastroenterology, and is intended for patient awareness and public health education. For personalized consultation and hepatitis care, contact the Department of Gastroenterology.