Jul 28, Kathmandu - Today, July 28, marks World Hepatitis Day, observed globally with various awareness programs to educate the public about hepatitis, promote timely testing and treatment, and encourage collective efforts to control the disease.

Hepatitis is an infectious disease affecting the liver, caused mainly by hepatitis viruses A, B, C, D, and E. Among these, hepatitis B and C are considered the most severe, as their long-term presence in the body can lead to serious liver damage, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and even premature death.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nine out of ten people infected with hepatitis B and C are unaware of their condition. Due to the often asymptomatic nature of the infection, many individuals only realize they are ill when the disease has advanced to a critical stage.

WHO data reveal that hepatitis B and C lead to approximately 1.3 million deaths annually, making them major global health challenges alongside HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria. In Nepal, the number of hepatitis patients remains significant, prompting increased focus on early testing, vaccination, and treatment.

Transmission of hepatitis can occur through blood contact, unsafe sexual practices, shared needles or syringes, unscreened blood transfusions, and from infected mothers to their children. Hepatitis A and E primarily spread through contaminated water and food. Health experts emphasize vaccination against hepatitis B, using only safe blood products, employing single-use needles and syringes, practicing safe sex, regular health check-ups, and maintaining good hygiene to prevent infection.

On the occasion of World Hepatitis Day, government and non-governmental organizations in Nepal have organized awareness campaigns, free testing services, interactive sessions, and health education programs, urging everyone to be vigilant in the fight against hepatitis. The WHO has set a goal to eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.