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Hepatitis is a common disease as one of the ways one can get hepatitis is as a side effect from medications, drugs, toxins, and alcohol. Hepatitis refers to an inflammatory condition of the liver. It affects the liver a lot and can often lead to fatal consequences. World Hepatitis Day is celebrated on July 28th every day to spread awareness on the dangers of this condition and to encourage people to vaccinate against as there are still people who believe vaccines are bad.
World Hepatitis Day 2025 Date – July 28
In this article readers can get a glimpse on
- History and Causes of World Hepatitis Day
- World Hepatitis Day Theme 2025
- World Hepatitis Day Quiz
History of World Hepatitis Day
1: Who was the first woman President of India?
World Hepatitis Day is recognized annually on July 28th, the birthday of Dr Baruch Blumberg (1925–2011). Dr Blumberg discovered the hepatitis B virus in 1967, and 2 years later he developed the first hepatitis B vaccine. These achievements culminated in Dr Blumberg winning the Nobel Prize. Organizations around the world, including WHO and CDC, commemorate World Hepatitis Day to raise awareness of the problem of viral hepatitis, which impacts more than 325 million people worldwide.
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Start Learning!World Hepatitis Day: The Effects
According to WHO, ‘325 million people are living with viral hepatitis B and C globally’. A total of 9 lakh people die every year due to hepatitis B virus infection. Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can cause a series of health problems often leading to death. There are five main strains of the hepatitis virus A, B, C, D and E. Hepatitis B and C combined are the most common cause of deaths, accounting to 1.3 million lives lost each year. It is alarming to know that only 10 % of people living with hepatitis B and 19% living with hepatitis C know the status of their Hepatitis as mentioned by the World Health Organization (WHO).
World Hepatitis Day: The Causes
Hepatitis A and E are mostly caused by the intake of contaminated food and water. Hepatitis B, C and D usually occur after coming in contact with infected blood and body fluids.
According to one of the studies conducted by WHO, an estimated 4.5 million premature deaths can be prevented in low- and middle-income countries by 2030 by vaccination, diagnostic tests, medicines and education campaigns. WHO’s global hepatitis strategy, ratified by all WHO member states, aims at reducing new hepatitis infections by 90% and deaths by 65% between 2016 and 2030.
World Hepatitis Day Theme 2025
For World Hepatitis Day 2025, observed on July 28th, the official theme is “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down.” This theme is a powerful call to action, urging a collective effort to dismantle the various obstacles that hinder the global fight against hepatitis and its severe consequences, such as liver disease and liver cancer.
The “Break It Down” aspect of the theme highlights the need to address and overcome several critical barriers:
- Financial Barriers: This refers to the high costs associated with hepatitis testing, treatment, and vaccination, which can make these essential services inaccessible to many. The theme advocates for making these resources more affordable and widely available.
- Social Barriers: Stigma and discrimination surrounding hepatitis continue to be significant challenges. Fear of judgment or social ostracism can prevent individuals from getting tested, seeking care, or openly discussing their condition. The theme aims to foster an environment of understanding and acceptance, encouraging open conversations and reducing the shame associated with the disease.
- Systemic Barriers: These include limitations within healthcare systems, such as inadequate infrastructure, insufficient integration of hepatitis services, and a lack of awareness among healthcare providers. “Breaking it down” in this context means simplifying and scaling up services, ensuring that vaccination, safe injection practices, harm reduction strategies, and particularly testing and treatment are seamlessly incorporated into national health programs and are easily accessible to all populations.
The overarching goal of “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down” is to accelerate progress towards the World Health Organization’s (WHO) target of eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. It serves as a reminder that despite the availability of effective prevention methods (like vaccines for Hepatitis B) and curative treatments (for Hepatitis C), millions of people worldwide are still living with undiagnosed or untreated hepatitis due to these persistent barriers. The theme aims to mobilize individuals, communities, governments, and healthcare systems to take urgent and coordinated action to expand access to care, integrate services, and ultimately save lives.
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Start Learning!World Hepatitis Day Previous Themes
World Hepatitis Day, observed annually on July 28, was established by the World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners. It aims to raise awareness of viral hepatitis, which causes inflammation of the liver, severe liver disease, and hepatocellular cancer, and to promote action to prevent, diagnose, and treat hepatitis. The date commemorates the birthday of Nobel Laureate Dr. Baruch Samuel Blumberg, who discovered the hepatitis B virus and developed the first hepatitis B vaccine.
Each year, a specific theme is chosen by the WHO to focus global attention on a particular aspect of hepatitis elimination. Here are the themes from recent years:
- 2015: “Prevent Hepatitis. Act Now.”
- 2016: “Elimination” (This was a key focus after the adoption of the first global hepatitis strategy). Some regional bodies also used “Know Hepatitis – Act Now.”
- 2017: “Eliminate Hepatitis”
- 2018: “Test. Treat. Hepatitis.” (WHO’s specific theme)
- 2019: “Invest in eliminating hepatitis”
- 2020: “Hepatitis Free Future”
- 2021: “Hepatitis Can’t Wait”
- 2022: “Bringing Hepatitis Care Closer to You” (While “I Can’t Wait” was also associated by some, WHO’s direct messaging focused on decentralizing care).
- 2023: “One life, one liver”
- 2024: “It’s time for action”
World Hepatitis Day Facts
- 1,100,000 deaths per year are caused by Hepatitis B and C infections.
- 9,400,000 people are receiving treatment for chronic hepatitis C virus infection.
- 10 % of people who have chronic infection with hepatitis B virus are diagnosed, and 22% of them receive treatment.
- Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused due to hepatitis C virus (HCV): the virus is capable of causing both acute and chronic hepatitis, varying in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a serious, lifetime illness. It is a major cause of liver cancer.
- 42 % of children, globally, have access to the birth dose of the hepatitis B vaccine
- Hepatitis C virus is a bloodborne virus: It is mostly caused by getting infected through exposure to small quantities of blood. Reasons such as injection drug use, unsafe injection practices, unsafe health care, transfusion of unscreened blood and blood products, and sexual practices often leading to exposure to blood.
- An estimated 71 million people have chronic hepatitis C virus infection globally.
- Most of those who are chronically infected will develop cirrhosis or liver cancer.
- WHO estimated that in 2016, approximately 4 lakh people died of hepatitis C, mostly from cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (primary liver cancer).
- Antiviral medicines are capable of curing more than 95% of persons with hepatitis C infection, therefore reducing the risk of death from cirrhosis and liver cancer, but access to diagnosis and treatment remains low.
- Till now, no effective vaccine against hepatitis C has been made; nevertheless, research is being carried out.
Hepatitis may not be that big of a buzz now but it is still silently working its way through many lives and we must stop it before it becomes worse. Do check out other important days in July. Stay safe keep learning and have a nice day! 🙂
World Hepatitis Day Quiz 2025
A) Hepatitis A
B) Hepatitis B
C) Hepatitis C
3. Which hepatitis virus is primarily spread through contaminated food or water?
A) Hepatitis B
B) Hepatitis C
C) Hepatitis A
A) Migraine
B) Liver cancer
C) Kidney stones
5. Which hepatitis virus requires another hepatitis virus to replicate?
A) Hepatitis A
B) Hepatitis D
C) Hepatitis E
A) 0.8 million
B) 1.3 million
C) 2 million
A) Hepatitis C
B) Hepatitis B
C) Hepatitis E
A) Hepatitis A
B) Hepatitis B
C) Hepatitis E
A) Eliminate hepatitis C by 2027
B) Eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030
C) Vaccinate all adults against hepatitis A by 2026
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World Hepatitis Day Quiz 2025 PDF
World Hepatitis Day serves as a global reminder of the urgent need to combat viral hepatitis, a disease that silently affects millions worldwide. With chronic infections leading to severe liver conditions, including cancer and cirrhosis, the day emphasizes awareness, testing, and early treatment. It also honours the contributions of scientists like Dr. Baruch Blumberg, whose work laid the foundation for lifesaving hepatitis research. By uniting governments, healthcare providers, and communities, the observance promotes coordinated action and stronger health systems.
Despite the availability of vaccines and treatments, gaps in access, awareness, and infrastructure remain major challenges. World Hepatitis Day is not just a campaign—it’s a call to prioritize liver health and eliminate stigma surrounding the disease. Global efforts, when supported by education and policy change, can help eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat. Everyone has a role to play—from getting tested to advocating for equal healthcare access. The journey toward a hepatitis-free future begins with informed action today.
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Start Learning!Frequently Asked Questions
What is World Hepatitis Day and why is it important?
World Hepatitis Day is observed annually on July 28. It aims to raise awareness about viral hepatitis and its global impact. The day highlights the importance of prevention, testing, and treatment. It also commemorates Dr. Baruch Blumberg, who discovered the Hepatitis B virus. The day encourages action toward eliminating hepatitis as a public health threat.
What are the main types of hepatitis viruses?
There are five main types: hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis A and E usually spread through contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B, C, and D are mainly transmitted through blood or body fluids. B and C can become chronic and cause long-term liver damage. Vaccines exist for A and B, but not for C.
How is hepatitis B transmitted and can it be prevented?
Hepatitis B spreads through contact with infected blood, unprotected sex, or from mother to child. It can also spread through unsafe medical practices and shared needles. The infection can become chronic and lead to liver disease or cancer. A highly effective vaccine is available to prevent hepatitis B. Early vaccination is the most reliable prevention method.
What is the difference between acute and chronic hepatitis?
Acute hepatitis is a short-term infection that typically lasts less than six months. It can cause symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, and nausea. Chronic hepatitis lasts longer than six months and may be lifelong. Chronic forms, especially hepatitis B and C, can lead to liver cirrhosis or cancer. Proper testing helps distinguish between the two types.
How can hepatitis C be diagnosed and treated?
Hepatitis C is diagnosed through a blood test that detects the virus. If positive, further tests determine the severity and genotype. Modern antiviral medicines can cure hepatitis C in most cases. Treatment typically lasts 8 to 12 weeks with minimal side effects. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing liver damage.
Is there a vaccine for all types of hepatitis?
Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B. The hepatitis B vaccine is also effective against hepatitis D when given early. There is currently no vaccine for hepatitis C. Hepatitis E vaccines exist in some countries but are not widely available. Safe practices and hygiene are essential to prevent types without vaccines.
Who is most at risk for viral hepatitis?
High-risk groups include healthcare workers, people who inject drugs, and those with multiple sexual partners. Infants born to hepatitis-infected mothers are also at risk. People in areas with poor sanitation may contract hepatitis A or E. Patients on dialysis or with liver diseases face higher risks. Travelers to high-risk regions should also take precautions.
What are the common symptoms of hepatitis?
Symptoms often include fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, and abdominal pain. Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes, is a common sign. Some individuals may have dark urine or pale stool. In many cases, especially with hepatitis C, symptoms may be mild or absent. This makes regular testing very important.
How can people protect themselves from hepatitis?
Getting vaccinated is a key step in prevention, especially for hepatitis A and B. Avoiding unprotected sex and not sharing needles reduces transmission risk. Proper hygiene and clean food and water help prevent hepatitis A and E. Healthcare workers should follow safety protocols to prevent accidental exposure. Regular testing and treatment also help reduce spread.
What are the global efforts to eliminate hepatitis?
The World Health Organization aims to eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. This includes reducing new infections and deaths through prevention, testing, and treatment. Governments are encouraged to expand vaccination programs and improve sanitation. Awareness campaigns like World Hepatitis Day support these efforts. Access to affordable care remains a major global focus.
