The World Health Organization (WHO) has released a concerning report indicating a rise in deaths due to viral hepatitis globally. The disease now stands as the second leading infectious cause of death worldwide, claiming 1.3 million lives annually, on par with tuberculosis. Despite advancements in diagnosis and treatment, the number of deaths has increased, with 83% attributed to hepatitis B and 17% to hepatitis C.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed alarm over the situation, stressing the urgent need for action to reverse this trend. The report underscores that although progress has been made in preventing hepatitis infections, too few people are being diagnosed and treated. WHO emphasizes the importance of utilizing available tools and treatments to save lives.
As of 2022, an estimated 254 million people are living with hepatitis B, and 50 million with hepatitis C. Half of these cases are among individuals aged 30-54, with 12% affecting children under 18. Men account for 58% of all cases.
While there has been a slight decrease in new infections compared to 2019, the overall incidence of viral hepatitis remains high. In 2022 alone, there were 2.2 million new infections, including 1.2 million of hepatitis B and nearly 1 million of hepatitis C.
Despite some improvements, diagnosis and treatment coverage fall far short of global targets. Only 13% of people with chronic hepatitis B and 36% with hepatitis C have been diagnosed. Treatment rates are even lower, with only 3% receiving antiviral therapy for hepatitis B and 20% receiving curative treatment for hepatitis C.
Regional disparities further exacerbate the issue. The African Region bears a significant burden of new hepatitis B infections, yet only 18% of newborns receive the hepatitis B vaccination. In the Western Pacific Region, treatment coverage for diagnosed individuals stands at a mere 23%, insufficient to reduce mortality rates.
Ten countries, including Bangladesh, China, and India, shoulder nearly two-thirds of the global burden of hepatitis B and C. Achieving universal access to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment in these nations by 2025 is crucial to align the global response with Sustainable Development Goals.
Despite the availability of affordable generic medications, many countries struggle to procure them at lower prices. Pricing disparities persist both across and within regions, hindering access to treatment for those in need.
The report outlines a series of actions to combat viral hepatitis, including expanding access to testing and diagnostics, strengthening primary care prevention efforts, and mobilizing innovative financing. However, funding remains insufficient to meet the growing demand for hepatitis services.
In light of these challenges, WHO calls for greater awareness and investment in cost-saving interventions to ensure equitable access to life-saving treatments. The report aims to empower countries to address these inequities and secure affordable tools to combat viral hepatitis effectively.
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