Global Experts Gather In Lisbon For World Hepatitis Summit 2024 To Combat Viral Hepatitis

The World Hepatitis Summit (WHS) 2024 is set to take place in Lisbon from 9 - 11 April, marking a significant gathering of global experts in the field of hepatitis. This event aims to foster discussions on the latest advancements in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of viral hepatitis. A diverse group comprising policy makers, civil society members, private sector representatives, academics, and other stakeholders will come together to share innovative approaches for enhancing access to testing, vaccination, and treatment services. The summit will also address crucial issues such as stigma and discrimination while advocating for increased funding towards the goal of eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030.

Highlighting the summit's agenda is the presentation of a pioneering report by the World Hepatitis Alliance (WHA) and The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). This report sheds light on the levels of stigma and discrimination faced by individuals living with hepatitis in Europe. Findings reveal that a significant portion (50%) of those living with hepatitis B and C find it challenging to disclose their condition. Furthermore, about a quarter have not informed their family (23%) or friends (25%) about their hepatitis status. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified combating this stigma through policy and structural changes as a critical step towards achieving hepatitis elimination.

On the opening day, WHO is scheduled to release its 2024 Global Hepatitis Report. This comprehensive document represents the first consolidated report on viral hepatitis epidemiology, service coverage, and product access. It includes improved data from 187 countries for action, offering regional perspectives and actionable steps to escalate interventions. The report emphasizes the importance of applying lessons learned from the COVID-19 response to combat hepatitis effectively.

The WHS is an initiative organized by the World Hepatitis Alliance, supported by the Ministry of Health of Portugal and co-sponsored by WHO. Its primary mission is to assist countries in achieving the targets necessary for viral hepatitis elimination. The summit will be held both in Lisbon and virtually, providing a platform for global collaboration.

Viral hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by a virus, leading to significant health challenges worldwide. According to WHO, viral hepatitis was responsible for approximately 1.1 million deaths globally in 2019, including acute cases, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Currently, over 350 million people worldwide are living with this condition. Each year, viral hepatitis claims over a million lives due to acute hepatitis and chronic infections that result in liver cancer and cirrhosis.

This summit represents a pivotal moment in the global fight against viral hepatitis, offering hope for advancements in treatment and increased awareness about this pressing public health issue. For more information on the World Hepatitis Summit and related initiatives, visit http://worldhepatitissummit.org/ and https://www.worldhepatitisalliance.org/.