WHO Calls for Action to Combat Viral Hepatitis by 2030

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reiterated the necessity for enhanced actions and dependable financing to eradicate the spread of viral hepatitis by 2030. A statement released on Tuesday during the World Hepatitis Summit highlighted a new report indicating that hepatitis B and C are responsible for 1.34 million deaths globally.

The report notes that there are approximately 4,900 new infections daily, totaling 1.8 million annually, underscoring the ongoing spread despite advancements in prevention, testing, and treatment interventions. Since 2015, there has been a 32% decrease in new hepatitis B infections and a 12% decline in hepatitis C-related deaths.

However, the report warns that progress is slow and uneven, necessitating accelerated prevention efforts and broader access to effective treatments. WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus emphasized that political commitment and reliable financing are crucial, as many individuals remain undiagnosed and untreated due to stigma and inequitable access to healthcare.

Current estimates show that 287 million people live with chronic hepatitis B and C, with Africa accounting for 68% of new hepatitis B infections.