Let’s Break It Down

Each year on 28 July, the world comes together to observe World Hepatitis Day, one of only eight official global public health campaigns spearheaded by the World Health Organisation (WHO). But why does hepatitis get its own day? And what should we, as global citizens, know and do about it?

Taking the call of this year’s theme, let's break it down.

Why 28 July?

This date marks the birthday of Dr. Baruch Blumberg, the scientist who discovered the hepatitis B virus and developed the first vaccine against it. His contributions laid the foundation for saving millions of lives globally.

Hepatitis: What Is It?

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Hepatitis simply means inflammation of the liver. While it can result from toxins, alcohol use, or autoimmune conditions, the most common culprits are viruses; specifically hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E.

Some forms are short-term (acute) and resolve without lasting damage. Others are chronic, quietly attacking the liver over years, potentially leading to cirrhosis, liver cancer, or even death.

A Quick Breakdown:

• Hepatitis A: Spread via contaminated food or water. Often resolves on its own.

• Hepatitis B: Transmitted through blood, sexual contact, or from mother to child. Can become chronic and may lead to liver cirrhosis and cancer. A vaccine is available.

• Hepatitis C: Mainly spread through blood-to-blood contact (e.g. shared needles). Chronic infection may lead to liver cirrhosis and cancer. While there is no vaccine, treatment is now highly effective.

• Hepatitis D: Occurs only in people already infected with hepatitis B. It worsens the disease and increases the risk of severe liver complications, including cancer.

• Hepatitis E: Spread through contaminated water, especially in areas with poor sanitation. May cause acute liver failure.

Did You Know?

• Over 350 million people globally live with chronic hepatitis B or C.

• Every 30 seconds, someone dies from a hepatitis-related illness.

• Many people with hepatitis show no symptoms until it’s too late; it’s often called the “silent epidemic.”

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This Year’s Theme: Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down

The WHO is calling for urgent action to eliminate the financial, social, and systemic barriers that stand in the way of hepatitis prevention and care, especially the stigma that keeps people from seeking help.

Common Symptoms (When They Do Show Up)

• Persistent fatigue

• Nausea and vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Fever

• Pain in the upper right abdomen

• Dark urine or pale stools

• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)

• Joint pain (particularly for Hep B)

What You Can Do

Here’s the good news: most forms of hepatitis are preventable or treatable. Here’s how you can protect yourself and those around you:

• Get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B.

• Practice safe sex and avoid sharing needles or personal items.

• Eat and drink safely, especially when travelling.

• Screen regularly, especially if you're in a high-risk group.

• Get treated; hepatitis B can be managed, and hepatitis C is largely curable with modern antiviral therapy.

• Talk about it; awareness helps dismantle stigma.

Looking Ahead

The global goal is clear: eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. That’s only five years away. But with coordinated efforts from governments, healthcare providers, and communities, it’s a future within reach.

Need help to find your healthcare provider? View the list of MHTC’s member hospitals in Malaysia here:

MHTC Members

Here at Malaysia Healthcare, we prioritise a patient’s entire being, not just their physical symptoms or diagnosis, but taking into account their mental, emotional, social, and even spiritual well-being. This ensures their needs are met holistically with personalised care that supports every aspect of their healing and recovery journey.

References:

World Health Organisation

World Hepatitis Day