World Hepatitis Day 2025: Hepatitis – Let’s Break It Down
Every year, World Hepatitis Day is observed on 28th July to raise global awareness about viral hepatitis, a silent yet deadly liver disease that affects millions across the world. The 2025 theme – “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down” – urges us to simplify the understanding of hepatitis and encourage people to take preventive action.
As a leading liver specialist in Gurgaon, Dr. Mukesh Nandal, aim to shed light on the burden of hepatitis in India, the importance of liver health, and how timely screening and treatment can save lives.
Understanding Hepatitis: What Is It?
Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver, most commonly caused by viral infections. The major types are Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E – each differing in mode of transmission, severity, and treatment.
- Hepatitis A & E are primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water.
- Hepatitis B, C & D are bloodborne viruses, often spread through unprotected sex, contaminated needles, or from mother to child during birth.
Left untreated, chronic hepatitis B and C can lead to liver cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.
Hepatitis in India: A Silent Epidemic
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India:
- India carries nearly 11% of the global burden of chronic hepatitis B.
- Over 40 million Indians are chronically infected with hepatitis B, and around 6-12 million with hepatitis C.
- Liver cancer, majorly caused by hepatitis B and C, is among the top causes of cancer-related deaths in India.
Despite being preventable and treatable, millions remain unaware of their hepatitis status. That’s why awareness is critical.
Let’s Break It Down: Key Facts Everyone Should Know
1. Hepatitis B is Vaccine Preventable
A safe and effective hepatitis B vaccine is available and part of India’s Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). Newborns should be vaccinated within 24 hours of birth.
2. Hepatitis C Can Be Cured
Thanks to advancements in medicine, hepatitis C is now curable with oral antivirals that are well-tolerated and effective in over 95% of cases.
3. Testing is the First Step
Most people with chronic hepatitis do not experience any symptoms until advanced liver damage occurs. Hence, regular liver check-ups and viral hepatitis testing are essential, especially for high-risk groups.
Common Symptoms of Hepatitis
While early stages might be silent, some signs that need urgent attention include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dark urine and pale stool
If you notice these symptoms, consult a liver specialist in Gurgaon or your local hepatologist immediately.
Who Is at Risk?
You should get tested if you fall under any of the following categories:
- Individuals born to hepatitis-infected mothers
- Healthcare workers
- Patients undergoing dialysis or receiving blood transfusions
- People with tattoos or piercings done in non-sterile environments
- Individuals engaging in unprotected sex or sharing needles
How You Can Protect Your Liver
- Get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking, as these accelerate liver damage.
- Practice safe sex and never share razors, needles, or toothbrushes.
- Ensure safe drinking water and hygienic food practices.
- Go for regular liver function tests (LFTs) if you have any risk factors.
What Can You Do on World Hepatitis Day 2025?
This year’s theme reminds us: to act, we must understand. You can:
- Get tested: Know your hepatitis status.
- Spread awareness: Share information with your family, friends, and community.
- Support vaccination: Encourage new parents and pregnant women to vaccinate their children.
- Join awareness campaigns in your city, including those by local clinics and hospitals.
Government Efforts: National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP)
Launched in 2018 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, NVHCP aims to:
- Eliminate hepatitis C and significantly reduce hepatitis B by 2030
- Offer free screening, diagnosis, and treatment for hepatitis B & C at government hospitals
- Improve community awareness through education and outreach programs
You can visit the nearest district hospital or primary health center to avail these services.
Dr. Mukesh Nandal’s Message on Liver Health
As a Senior Consultant and Liver Specialist in Gurgaon, I strongly recommend early screening and lifestyle modifications to protect your liver. Our goal is to make liver care accessible, simple, and stigma-free.
Remember, your liver silently performs over 500 functions daily. Let’s not wait for a symptom to show up before taking care of it.
Conclusion
World Hepatitis Day 2025 is a powerful reminder that knowledge saves lives. With the right awareness, proactive health check-ups, and preventive measures, hepatitis can be controlled, treated, and even eliminated.
Break the silence. Break the myths. Break it down. Let’s defeat hepatitis together.
Let’s keep liver health at the heart of our well being – not just on World Hepatitis Day, but every day.