An estimated 304 million people worldwide live with hepatitis B or C. For most, testing and treatment remain beyond reach. Viral hepatitis is the second leading infectious cause of death globally, with 1.3 million deaths per year the same as tuberculosis. Of these, 83 per cent are caused by hepatitis B and 17 per cent by hepatitis C. We must shift from mere awareness to tangible action.
While annual symposiums and awareness campaigns have played a role in highlighting the issue, it is now clear that these efforts are not enough. Our government must move beyond lip service and take concrete actions to address this pressing public health crisis.
Hepatitis, encompassing a range of diseases including hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, affects millions worldwide, leading to severe health complications such as liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. Despite significant strides in research and treatment, the rate of new infections remains alarmingly high, and many sufferers lack access to necessary healthcare services. This status quo is unacceptable.
According to the World Health Organization 2024 Global Hepatitis Report, the number of lives lost due to viral hepatitis is increasing. The disease is the second leading infectious cause of death globally, with 1.3 million deaths per year, the same as tuberculosis, a top infectious killer.
Also, New data from 187 countries show that the estimated number of deaths from viral hepatitis increased from 1.1 million in 2019 to 1.3 million in 2022. Of these, 83% were caused by hepatitis B and 17 per cent by hepatitis C. Every day, 3500 people are dying globally due to hepatitis B and C infections. It is estimated that 20 million Nigerians are living with HBV and HCV.
we have leaned heavily on international organizations to drive the fight against hepatitis and other public health issues. These entities have provided invaluable support in terms of funding, research, and resources. However, reliance on external aid has created complacency within our systems.
Hepatitis continues to claim lives and burden our healthcare system. Despite the availability of vaccines and treatments, the disease remains a significant health threat due to insufficient funding, lack of infrastructure, and inadequate public health strategies. The time has come for our government to take ownership of this crisis and invest in a permanent solution.
It is not news that the response to public health issues in the West is often more robust when their populations are directly affected, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rapid development and distribution of vaccines were largely driven by the severe impact of the virus on Western countries. We cannot afford to wait for international organizations or external forces to prioritize our health issues. As a nation, we must take responsibility for our own health crises and allocate the necessary resources to combat hepatitis effectively.
Investment in research and treatment must be a top priority. Current funding levels are insufficient to support the comprehensive strategies needed to eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030, a goal set by the WHO. We need adequate funding for local research initiatives aimed at developing a permanent cure for hepatitis. Our scientists and researchers have the capability to make groundbreaking discoveries, but they require the financial backing to do so.
Again, significant enhancement to manage and treat hepatitis effectively is needed. This includes increasing the availability of testing and diagnostic facilities, ensuring affordable access to antiviral treatments, and implementing comprehensive vaccination programs. Special attention must be given to rural and underserved communities, where healthcare access is often limited.
Public health strategies must go beyond awareness campaigns. We need to fund educational programs integrated into schools, community centers, and healthcare facilities to provide accurate information about hepatitis transmission, prevention, and treatment. Additionally, preventive measures such as clean needle programs and safe blood transfusion practices must be implemented rigorously.
As a nation, we cannot continue to seek solutions to this disease year after year and keep creating themes yearly without results. The people have heard enough words. It is time for action. Let this World Hepatitis Day be a turning point, where we transition from awareness to accountability, from discussion to decisive action.