The liver is one of the most fascinating structures in the human body. It is the largest internal organ (weighing about 2kg) and the only one with the ability to regenerate. Beyond this, the liver is also an interestingly versatile and sophisticated organ, performing as much as 500 important functions. Little wonder why it is deemed just as vital as the brain and the heart. Unfortunately, this impressive organ is the specific target of one of the most burdensome diseases of mankind today — hepatitis.
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, usually by a group of viruses. These viruses are of five different strains, known as types A, B, C, D and E. The different strains infect the liver through various means and also exert varying levels of severity. Apart from viruses, some non-infectious agents such as alcohol, drugs and toxins may also cause hepatitis. In light of the 2024 World Hepatitis Day celebrated two days ago, this post highlights important facts about hepatitis, as put forward by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
The death tolls are rising: In 2022, the WHO reported that 1.3 million people died from Hepatitis B and C. Presently, about 304 million people are living with a chronic hepatitis infection, with 3500 people dying from Hepatitis B or C every day. Ths is equivalent to one person dying from hepatitis every 30 seconds!
Many cases remain undiagnosed: Almost 220 million people living with hepatitis B are undiagnosed. This is also the case for another 36 million people living with hepatitis C. Most people with hepatitis would in fact not be aware until the disease has become advanced, with severe liver diseases and even liver cancer.
Africa is severely affected: In 2022, about 68 million people living in Africa had hepatitis B while 8 million were living with hepatitis C. About 63% of all new hepatitis B infections globally occur in Africa. Furthermore, in 2022, it was reported that hepatitis B and C caused over 270, 000 and 35, 000 deaths respectively in the African region. There are also reports that by 2040, hepatitis may kill more people than HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis combined.
Access to treatment is low: For the limited number of people that have been diagnosed, access to care and treatment has been inadequate. Among the 304 million people living with hepatitis B and C, only 7 million are treated for hepatitis B and 12.5 million people have been cured of hepatitis C. In Africa, more than 90% of people living with hepatitis B and C do not have access to quality care.
It is needless to say that the stats are indeed worrisome, and there is an urgent need to scale up efforts in the fight against hepatitis. So, how can you take action? It’s easy:
- Get vaccinated
- Get screened
- Avoid sharing needles and other sharp objects
- Practise safe sex
- Share correct information about hepatitis with others.
Remember that ensuring a healthy world is everyone’s responsibility. So join the fight, and let us all work together to create a hepatitis-free world. Don’t forget to check out our 2024 World Hepatitis Day post here.
