India is grappling with a silent epidemic that lurks in the shadows, yet its impact on public health cannot be overstated. The Global Hepatitis Report 2024, released by the WHO, paints a grim picture: India is among the countries bearing the highest burden of viral hepatitis, with millions afflicted by hepatitis B and C infections. These diseases silently wreak havoc on individuals and families, leading to liver damage, cancer and even death. With 2.9 crore individuals living with hepatitis B and 0.55 crore with hepatitis C, the urgency to address this crisis cannot be understated. Despite being preventable and treatable, viral hepatitis continues to claim lives unabated. In 2022 alone, over 50,000 new cases of Hepatitis B and 1.4 lakh new cases of Hepatitis C were reported, resulting in 1.23 lakh deaths. These numbers demand immediate action and comprehensive strategies to curb the spread of the disease and ensure access to timely treatment for all affected individuals.
Prevention is undoubtedly the cornerstone of any effective public health intervention. The availability of vaccines against Hepatitis B presents a beacon of hope in this battle. However, ensuring universal coverage and access to vaccination, particularly among high-risk populations, remains a challenge. Beyond prevention, the pressing need lies in expanding diagnostics and treatment services across the country. It is disheartening to note that a mere 2.4 percent of Hepatitis B cases and 28 percent of Hepatitis C cases are diagnosed in India, with even lower percentages receiving treatment. This glaring treatment gap underscores the urgent need for scaling up diagnostic facilities and ensuring access to affordable treatment options. While India boasts low costs for hepatitis treatment, the challenge lies in reaching those in need and ensuring they utilize available services. Despite the existence of national control programs and free diagnostics and treatment initiatives, the uptake remains suboptimal. There is an urgent need for concerted efforts to raise awareness, destigmatize the disease, and promote healthcare-seeking behaviour. Combating viral hepatitis demands a multifaceted approach encompassing prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
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