Correct Answer : Option (B) - July 28th
World Hepatitis Day, observed annually on July 28th, serves as a global platform to raise awareness about viral hepatitis, a group of infectious diseases that cause inflammation of the liver and can lead to severe liver disease and cancer. As we approach the 2024 commemoration, the urgency of addressing this global health challenge has never been more pressing.
Theme for 2024: “It’s Time for Action” :
The theme for World Hepatitis Day 2024, “
It’s Time for Action,” encapsulates the critical need for immediate and decisive steps to combat hepatitis worldwide. This call to action is underscored by the alarming statistic that a person dies every 30 seconds from a hepatitis-related illness. The global health community is rallying to accelerate efforts in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment to save lives and improve health outcomes.
Understanding Hepatitis: A Complex Health Challenge :
What is Hepatitis?Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections but also resulting from other factors such as alcohol consumption, certain medications, and autoimmune diseases. The liver, a vital organ responsible for numerous essential functions, becomes compromised when affected by hepatitis, leading to potentially severe health consequences.
The Five Main Strains : There are five main strains of the hepatitis virus, each with distinct characteristics:
* Hepatitis A
* Hepatitis B
* Hepatitis C
* Hepatitis D
* Hepatitis E
Among these, hepatitis
B and C are the most common and have the most significant impact on global health. Together, these two strains result in an astounding
1.3 million deaths and 2.2 million new infections per year.