World Hepatitis Day, observed annually on July 28th, was established by the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness about viral hepatitis, which affects millions of people globally and can lead to severe liver disease, cancer, and death if left untreated. The date was chosen in honor of Nobel Laureate Dr. Baruch Blumberg, who discovered the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and developed the first HBV vaccine. The day focuses on increasing awareness, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of hepatitis to eliminate the disease by 2030, as targeted by the WHO.

Viral hepatitis comes in different types—primarily hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E—each varying in its transmission and impact. Hepatitis B and C are the most common causes of chronic liver disease and cancer. Many people are unaware they are infected, as the disease often shows no symptoms until it becomes severe. World Hepatitis Day emphasizes the importance of early testing, vaccination, and treatment to prevent long-term complications.

On this day, governments, healthcare organizations, and communities worldwide organize campaigns, educational events, free screenings, and vaccination drives to promote public awareness of the disease and provide people with access to life-saving treatments. The day encourages global cooperation to achieve the goal of eliminating hepatitis as a public health threat.

World Hepatitis Day serves as a reminder that with the right interventions—such as vaccines, testing, and treatment—hepatitis is preventable and curable, and everyone can contribute to reducing its global burden.