The World Health Organization (WHO) has released alarming statistics on the global impact of viral hepatitis, revealing it as the second leading infectious cause of death worldwide.
With 1.3 million deaths annually, viral hepatitis infections pose a significant public health challenge comparable to tuberculosis.
At the World Hepatitis Summit in Lisbon, Portugal, the WHO emphasized the urgent need for action to address the hepatitis crisis.
Despite advancements in diagnosis and treatment, the number of deaths attributed to viral hepatitis continues to rise, with approximately 3,500 lives lost daily.
The report underscores regional disparities in hepatitis burden, with Africa bearing a significant proportion of new infections, particularly hepatitis B. Key countries such as Bangladesh, China, India, and Nigeria shoulder a substantial burden of hepatitis B and C cases.
In light of these findings, the WHO advocates for expanded access to testing, diagnostics, and treatment, alongside intensified prevention efforts and investment in priority countries.
Urgent action is needed to achieve the WHO’s elimination goal by 2030 and mitigate the devastating impact of viral hepatitis on global health.
