The World Health Organization has revealed that viral hepatitis caused an estimated 1.3 million deaths in 2024, maintaining its status as one of the world's deadliest infectious diseases. While new infections have declined, the latest WHO report highlights critical gaps in diagnosis and treatment access, particularly in low and middle income countries. The findings underscore the urgent need for accelerated global efforts to meet the 2030 elimination targets set in the Global Health Sector Strategies on HIV, viral hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections.
What the WHO report reveals
The World Health Organization's latest assessment paints a stark picture of the global hepatitis burden. Despite progress in reducing new infections, viral hepatitis claimed approximately 1.3 million lives last year, with hepatitis B and C accounting for 96% of these deaths. The report, released on Monday, evaluates progress toward the 2022 2030 Global Health Sector Strategies, revealing that only 13% of people living with chronic hepatitis B and 36% with hepatitis C have been diagnosed. Treatment coverage remains alarmingly low, with just 3% of hepatitis B patients and 20% of hepatitis C patients receiving appropriate care.
The data shows significant regional disparities. Africa bears 63% of new hepatitis B infections, yet only 18% of newborns in the region receive the hepatitis B birth dose vaccine. In contrast, the Western Pacific region accounts for 47% of hepatitis B deaths. For hepatitis C, the Eastern Mediterranean and European regions report the highest prevalence, with injecting drug use driving transmission in many high income countries.
Why progress has stalled
Several systemic challenges are hindering elimination efforts. The WHO identifies inadequate funding as a primary barrier, with many countries lacking dedicated budgets for hepatitis programs. Diagnostic gaps persist due to limited access to affordable testing, particularly in rural areas. Treatment costs remain prohibitive in many low income countries, where generic versions of direct acting antivirals for hepatitis C are still not widely available.
The report also highlights the impact of the COVID 19 pandemic, which disrupted hepatitis services in 43% of countries. Routine immunization programs suffered, with hepatitis B birth dose coverage dropping from 44% in 2019 to 41% in 2022. Additionally, stigma and discrimination continue to prevent key populations, including people who inject drugs and men who have sex with men, from accessing care.
Global response and urgent priorities
The WHO is calling for immediate action to accelerate progress toward the 2030 elimination targets. Key priorities include expanding access to affordable diagnostics and treatments, integrating hepatitis services into primary healthcare, and strengthening prevention efforts. The organization emphasizes the need for increased domestic and international funding, with an estimated $6 billion annually required to scale up hepatitis programs in low and middle income countries.
Dr. Meg Doherty, Director of WHO's Global HIV, Hepatitis, and STI Programmes, stated, "We have the tools to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat, but we need political will and sustained investment to make this a reality. Every hepatitis related death is preventable with existing interventions."
Several countries have demonstrated that rapid progress is possible. Egypt, for example, reduced hepatitis C prevalence from 10% to less than 1% in just five years through a national screening and treatment campaign. Similarly, Rwanda has achieved over 90% hepatitis B birth dose vaccination coverage, significantly reducing mother to child transmission.
What's next for hepatitis elimination
The WHO report sets clear benchmarks for the coming years. By 2026, countries should aim to diagnose 50% of people living with hepatitis B and C and treat 50% of those eligible. The ultimate goal remains the elimination of viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030, defined as a 90% reduction in new infections and a 65% reduction in mortality compared to 2015 levels.
Upcoming developments include the WHO's plan to update its hepatitis testing and treatment guidelines later this year. The organization is also working with partners to improve access to generic medications, with several new hepatitis C drug applications under review. Global advocacy efforts will intensify ahead of World Hepatitis Day on July 28, which will focus on the theme "It's time for action."
Key Takeaways
- Viral hepatitis caused 1.3 million deaths in 2024, with hepatitis B and C responsible for 96% of cases, despite progress in reducing new infections.
- Only 13% of people with chronic hepatitis B and 36% with hepatitis C have been diagnosed, while treatment coverage remains critically low at 3% and 20%, respectively.
- The WHO calls for urgent global action, including expanded testing, affordable treatments, and increased funding, to meet the 2030 elimination targets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of viral hepatitis?
The most common types are hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis B and C are the leading causes of chronic liver disease and account for the majority of hepatitis related deaths worldwide.
How is hepatitis B and C transmitted?
Hepatitis B is primarily spread through contact with infectious body fluids, such as during childbirth, unprotected sex, or sharing needles. Hepatitis C is mainly transmitted through blood to blood contact, often via unsafe injection practices or transfusions.
Is there a cure for hepatitis B and C?
While there is no cure for hepatitis B, antiviral medications can control the virus and reduce liver damage. Hepatitis C is curable with direct acting antiviral drugs, which achieve cure rates above 95% in most patients.
Published by O. Ayodeji | Review by MedSense Editorial Board
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