Europe Asia News

The World Health Organization (WHO) called for greater awareness in the fight against viral hepatitis as part of World Hepatitis Day, observed annually on July 28.

WHO announced that the 2026 theme is “Hepatitis: Break It Down,” explaining that the campaign focuses on removing barriers preventing people from accessing life-saving health services.

WHO stated that viral hepatitis is a major global public health issue that causes liver inflammation and can lead to severe liver disease and liver cancer.

According to WHO data, 287 million people were living with chronic hepatitis B or C in 2024. In the same year, 1.3 million people died due to chronic hepatitis B and C infections. WHO also reported that hepatitis B vaccination coverage among newborns remained below target, with only 45 percent of infants receiving the vaccine within the first 24 hours after birth in 2024.

WHO emphasized that the medical tools needed to eliminate viral hepatitis are already available. Effective vaccines, accurate diagnostic methods, curative treatments for hepatitis C and long-term treatment options for hepatitis B can prevent infections, save lives and reduce the risk of liver cancer and cirrhosis.

Despite this, WHO noted that millions of people still lack access to diagnosis, treatment and care due to stigma, low awareness, weaknesses in health systems and persistent inequalities.

As part of its 2026 campaign, WHO called for stronger political commitment, sustainable investment and expanded equitable access to prevention, testing, treatment and care in order to implement scientifically proven solutions.