Raising Awareness to Protect Lives
Every year on July 28, the world unites to observe World Hepatitis Day—a vital global health campaign dedicated to raising awareness about viral Hepatitis and promoting prevention, testing, and Treatment. With millions affected worldwide, and many unaware of their infection, the theme for this year remains urgent and clear: “Hepatitis Can’t Wait.” At Pledge to Protect, we stand firm in our commitment to protecting lives through timely vaccination and awareness, especially in Bangladesh, where viral Hepatitis remains a significant but preventable health threat.
What is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, most often caused by viral infections. There are five main types—Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis B and C are the most dangerous, accounting for most chronic liver diseases, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
Hepatitis B Facts:
- Caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV)
- Spread through infected blood, bodily fluids, and from mother to child during birth
- Can lead to chronic infection, liver failure, or liver cancer
- Preventable with a safe and effective vaccine
Why Does World Hepatitis Day Matter?
- Over 296 million people globally live with chronic Hepatitis B
- Only 10% of people with HBV know their status
- In Bangladesh, millions remain undiagnosed or unvaccinated
- Hepatitis causes 1.1 million deaths annually—most of them preventable
These statistics highlight the urgent need for public education, early diagnosis, and access to vaccines and Treatment.
This Year’s Global Message: Hepatitis Can’t Wait
The message is clear: We can’t afford to delay action.
- People can’t wait for a diagnosis—many live unaware they are infected.
- Mothers can’t wait to protect their newborns with birth-dose vaccines.
- Communities can’t wait for equal access to screening and Treatment.
- Healthcare workers can’t wait for adequate training and resources.
At Pledge to Protect, we echo this call by making vaccines available, promoting awareness, and working alongside health professionals to close the care gap.
Prevention: The Power of Vaccination
Among all types of viral Hepatitis, Hepatitis B is vaccine-preventable. The Hepatitis B vaccine is:
- Safe
- 95–100% effective
- Lifesaving
Recommended For:
- All newborns (first dose within 24 hours of birth)
- Unvaccinated children and adults
- Healthcare workers
- People with chronic conditions or high-risk behaviors
In partnership with Health Care Pharmaceutical, Pledge to Protect supplies WHO-recommended vaccines that help prevent Hepatitis B, ensuring that protection reaches every child, family, and community.
What You Can Do on World Hepatitis Day
- Get Tested – Knowing your status is the first step to protecting your health.
- Get Vaccinated – Complete the Hepatitis B vaccine series for yourself and your children.
- Raise Awareness – Share accurate information about Hepatitis in your community or online.
- Support Local Efforts – Join hands with organizations like Pledge to Protect working on the ground.
- Advocate for Health Equity – Ensure everyone has access to vaccines and care regardless of location or income.
Protect Today, For a Healthier Tomorrow
On this World Hepatitis Day, Pledge to Protect reaffirms its mission to prevent life-threatening diseases through vaccination and reliable healthcare access. We believe in a world where no child or adult suffers from a disease that could have been prevented. Let’s act together—because Hepatitis can’t wait, but we can protect.
Quick Facts
- World Hepatitis Day: July 28
- Focus: Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E
- Preventable? Yes (Hepatitis A & B via vaccine)
- testing? Widely available, essential for early detection
- Treatment? Available for Hepatitis B (management) & C (curative)
FAQs related to Hepatitis
Q: What is World Hepatitis Day?
It’s a global awareness day observed on July 28 to highlight the burden of viral Hepatitis and promote action toward elimination.
Q: How is Hepatitis B transmitted?
Through contact with infected blood, sexual fluids, or from mother to child during birth.
Q: Is there a vaccine for Hepatitis?
Yes, vaccines are available for Hepatitis A and B. Hepatitis B vaccination is highly recommended for newborns and adults alike.
Q: What are the symptoms of Hepatitis B?
Many show no symptoms, but others may have fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, and abdominal pain.
Q: Where can I get vaccinated in Bangladesh?
You can access the Hepatitis B vaccine through public hospitals, private clinics, and trusted providers like Pledge to Protect.
