World Hepatitis Day takes place every
year on the July 28, and brings the world together under a single theme to
raise awareness of the global burden of viral hepatitis and to influence real
change.
This year’s theme is Eliminate Hepatitis.
Hepatitis is an inflammation of
the liver. There are 5 main hepatitis viruses; Hepatitis A is caused by consuming
contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B is a sexually transmitted disease.
Hepatitis C is commonly spread via direct contact with the blood of a person
who has the disease. A person can only become infected with hepatitis D if they
are already infected with hepatitis B.
Globally, around 250 million people are
affected by hepatitis
C and 300 million people are
estimated to be hepatitis
B carriers.
With the availability of effective vaccines and treatments for
Hepatitis B and a cure of 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.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/145869.php
http://worldhepatitisday.org/en/about-us
It is important
that people to know their Hepatitis status so we want to encourage testing.