The first-ever World Hepatitis Testing Week, taking place November 18-22, is a crucial time to highlight the importance of viral hepatitis screening.
Hepatitis, a viral inflammation of the liver, is the second deadliest infectious disease globally, and the leading cause of liver cancer. According to CDC, globally, in 2022, 1.2 million people were diagnosed with Hepatitis B, and 1 million people were diagnosed with Hepatitis C. Getting tested for viral hepatitis is imperative for eliminating the viral hepatitis epidemic, as many people who are infected are unaware of their status. Viral hepatitis screening is particularly important for expecting mothers, as the disease can be passed from mother to child, making testing vital to protect future generations. Screening is also crucial for people who inject drugs (PWID) and people living with HIV (PLWH). Hepatitis C affects an estimated 62%-80% of PLWH who inject drugs. People living with HIV who become infected with viral hepatitis are at an increased risk for liver-related disease and death.
Despite the availability of effective vaccines to prevent Hepatitis B and effective treatments for both HBV and HCV – the latter being curative – hepatitis due to HBV and HCV claims 3,500 lives each day and 1.3 million lives annually due to liver diseases and cancer, according to the World Health Organization. All WHO Member States have committed to eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030, but their efforts are only effective if people get tested. Testing saves lives, protects families, and safeguards future generations from hepatitis and related liver diseases.
To honor World Hepatitis Testing Week and recognize October’s Liver Cancer Awareness Month, HepVu is encouraging everyone – from friends and family to local officials and healthcare centers – to support viral hepatitis screening and prevention efforts, as well as increased testing and treatment in communities where access is limited. Together, we can make viral hepatitis elimination a reality.
Infographics
To raise awareness, HepVu is sharing updated infographics on hepatitis testing and liver cancer. Print them out as one-pagers, use them in presentations, and share them on socials to get the word out!
Social Posts
Post 1:
Viral #hepatitis is the second deadliest infectious disease globally, but most people are not aware of their status. Testing saves lives – it could even save yours. Protect yourself, your loved ones, and future generations this #WorldHepatitisTestingWeek.
Find the closest testing services to you using HepVu’s service locator: https://hepvu.org/services/#/
Post 2:
Every day, 3,500 people around the world die from hepatitis-related illnesses. This #WorldHepatitisTestingWeek, take the first step: Get tested. Early detection can save lives and stop the spread.
Post 3:
#DYK? Hepatitis claims the lives of over 1.3 million people annually and can be passed from mother to baby. This #WorldHepatitisTestingWeek, let’s prioritize health and protect future generations. Get tested, encourage others, and share this post. Together, we can work to eliminate viral hepatitis.
Find the closest testing location to you today: https://hepvu.org/services/#/
Post 4:
We have the tools to eliminate viral hepatitis – now is the time to act. Start by getting tested this World Hepatitis Testing Week (Nov 18–24). Share this post to help raise awareness and save lives. Together, we can make a difference! #WorldHepatitisTestingWeek
Post 5:
#DYK? Viral hepatitis is one of the leading causes of liver cancer. Even though it’s preventable and treatable, there are over 2 million new cases each year, threatening health and lives. Get tested and encourage others to do the same this #WorldHepatitisTestingWeek
