Hepatitis B and C cause 3,500 deaths daily: WHO

The World Health Organization has called on countries in Southeast Asia to urgently scale up efforts for providing universal access to prevention, vaccination, diagnosis and treatment of viral hepatitis B and C on the occasion of World Hepatitis Day on Sunday. Globally, hepatitis B and C combined cause 3,500 daily deaths, with 6,000 people newly infected with viral hepatitis each day.

The global health body said that the region accounted for 70.5 million people living with viral hepatitis B and C in 2022. Almost 75 per cent of liver cirrhosis is due to hepatitis B and C infection. Liver cancer today is the fourth-biggest cause of cancer deaths in the region and the second-most common cause of cancer deaths among men, it said. As per report, about 1.3 million people died of viral hepatitis in 2022. Viral hepatitis and tuberculosis were the second leading causes of death among communicable diseases in 2022, after COVID-19.

“We have the knowledge and tools to prevent, diagnose and treat viral hepatitis, yet people with chronic hepatitis B and C are still waiting to access the services they need. We need to accelerate efforts to deliver equitable services closer to communities, at the primary healthcare level,” said Saima Wazed, the WHO’s regional director for Southeast Asia.

An estimated 254 million people are living with hepatitis B and 50 million with hepatitis C worldwide. Many people remain undiagnosed and, even when diagnosed, the number of people getting services and receiving treatment remains extremely low, Ms Wazed said.

Talking about the preventive measures, Dr Sarthak Malik, Consultant Gastroenterologist, Manipal Hospital, said, “Maintaining liver health is crucial for overall well-being, as the liver plays a vital role in digestion, detoxification, and nutrient storage. A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports optimal liver function. Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and fatty foods can prevent liver diseases like fatty liver disease and cirrhosis.”