| Syllabus: GS-I, Subject: Society and social justice, Topic: Social Sector- Health, Issue: World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) Global Hepatitis Report 202 |
Hepatitis:
- Viral hepatitis includes hepatitis A, E, B, C, and D, with B and C posing significant health risks.
- Hepatitis B can be prevented by vaccination, while hepatitis C can be cured with medication.
- Hepatitis D can only infect those who are already infected with hep B.
- In India, hep B transmission is largely through mother-to-child transmission, while hep C infections are common among injection drug users.
- Challenges in controlling hepatitis B include ensuring full vaccination coverage and providing timely treatment.
- Treatment coverage for hepatitis B and C in India is notably lower than for tuberculosis, despite comparable mortality rates and cheaper availability.
- Improving vaccination coverage and treatment access are crucial for addressing viral hepatitis in India.
| +1 advantage for mains:
Key findings of the WHO’s Global Hepatitis Report 2024: ● India has one of the highest burdens(11% of the global burden) of viral hepatitis globally, ranking second only to China. ● India is among 10 countries where 80% of hepatitis C infections are among injection drug users. Key facts related to hepatitis in India: ● The hepatitis B vaccine was introduced in India’s universal immunization program in 2007-08. ● The National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme in 2018 included provisions for vaccinating high-risk groups like healthcare workers against hepatitis B. |
