Update on global epidemiology of viral hepatitis and preventive strategies

Abstract

Viral hepatitis is one of the major public health concerns around the world but until recently it has drawn little attention or funding from global health policymakers. Every year 1.4 million people die from viral hepatitis-related cirrhosis and liver cancer. However, the majority of the infected population are unaware of their condition. This population have significant obstacles to overcome such as lack of awareness, vulnerability, increased migration, disease stigma, discrimination, as well as poor health resources, conflict in policy development and program implementation. Despite implementing infection control measures over the last few decades eradication or significant disease reduction remains elusive. This study aims to present the current global prevalence status and examines potential elimination strategies. The information for this research were obtained through a systematic review, published scientific literatures, the official websites of various government organisations, international public health organisations and internationally recognised regulatory bodies over a period of 40 years between 1978 and 2018.

Keywords: Cirrhosis; Global epidemiology; Outreach clinic; Liver cancer; Vaccination; Viral hepatitis

Core tip: Viral hepatitis is a serious disease, which results in a high number of fatalities that increases each year, with the majority of infected people being unaware of their condition. Although many infection control measures have been employed with the expectation of reducing the spread of the virus, eradication or significant disease reduction remains a long way off. The global burden of the disease remains significant. This mini-review presents the current global prevalence status and examines potential elimination strategies.