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World Hepatitis Day 2023: The 28th of July is designated as World Hepatitis Day every year. An annual global campaign is underway to increase knowledge about viral hepatitis, promote preventative strategies, and call for improved access to hepatitis diagnosis, treatment, and care.

World Hepatitis Day was introduced by the World Health Organization (WHO) to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. Baruch Blumberg. He was a noble prize winning researcher who discovered the hepatitis B virus and created the first hepatitis B vaccine.

While it affects millions of individuals and places a heavy cost on healthcare systems, viral hepatitis continues to be a major public health concern on a global scale. However, by raising awareness and working together, it is feasible to stop new infections and enhance the quality of life for individuals who already have hepatitis.

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World Hepatitis Day 2023: History And Significance

The World Hepatitis Alliance (WHA), a non-governmental organization devoted to assisting those affected by viral hepatitis, established World Hepatitis Day for the first time in 2008. In order to combat viral hepatitis, the WHA—an organization that is both patient-led and patient-driven—brings together patient organizations, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders.

World Hepatitis Day was established on July 28 in honor of Dr. Baruch Samuel Blumberg's birth date. The hepatitis B virus (HBV) was identified by renowned American physician and researcher Dr. Blumberg, who also created the first hepatitis B vaccine. He received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1976 for his ground-breaking work in the field of hepatitis research.

A major global health issue that affects millions of individuals globally is viral hepatitis. Hepatitis viruses come in five basic categories: A, B, C, D, and E. Due to their chronic nature and potential for serious liver consequences, such as cirrhosis and liver cancer, hepatitis B and C are of particular concern. Hepatitis E is also a problem in some locations, particularly when there is a lack of access to clean water and poor sanitation.

The goal of World Hepatitis Day is to increase public awareness of viral hepatitis, which can cause cancer and liver problems. The most frequent causes of death, accounting for 13 lakh fatalities per year, are hepatitis B and C, according to the WHO. The day encourages Hepatitis B immunization, educates to avoid mother-to-child transmission, and helps broaden access to diagnostics and treatments. Other liver conditions, including cancer, can be avoided by promoting prompt testing and treatment.

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World Hepatitis Day 2023: Theme

The theme for this year's World Hepatitis Day is "One Life, One Liver," which places more importance on early detection, prevention, and treatment adherence. The theme calls on leaders to take swifter action to end viral hepatitis, preserve a healthy liver, and achieve the world's 2030 goals.

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