Global Warning: Rising Deaths from Hepatitis Viruses
More than 3,500 people die from hepatitis viruses every day, with the global toll on the rise, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Swift action is needed to combat this concerning trend.
Key Findings
- New data from 187 countries revealed that deaths from viral hepatitis increased to 1.3 million in 2022 from 1.1 million in 2019.
- 83% of deaths are attributed to hepatitis B, while 17% are due to hepatitis C.
Challenges and Solutions
Despite the availability of effective and affordable generic drugs for treating these viruses, only a small percentage of those affected receive treatment. By the end of 2022, only 3% of individuals with chronic hepatitis B and 20% with hepatitis C had received antiviral treatment.
The global targets to treat 80% of all individuals with chronic hepatitis B and C by 2030 are far from being met, raising concerns about the lack of diagnosis and treatment for those with hepatitis.
Regional Impact
Africa accounts for a significant portion of new hepatitis B infections, with low rates of vaccination at birth. Access to generic hepatitis drugs is limited in affected countries, leading to higher costs for treatment.
Notably, two-thirds of all hepatitis cases are concentrated in ten countries, emphasizing the need for universal access to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment by 2025 to improve the global response.
Viral hepatitis remains a significant global health challenge, with deaths on the rise despite some progress in prevention efforts. Urgent action is required to ensure that more individuals with hepatitis are diagnosed and treated effectively to reduce the global burden of this infectious disease.
