● Definition: Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver caused by viral
infections as well as non-infectious factors such as excessive alcohol
consumption, certain medications, toxic substances, and autoimmune
disorders.
● Types: The disease is classified into five major viral forms—Hepatitis A
(HAV), Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV), Hepatitis D (HDV), and
Hepatitis E (HEV).
● Symptoms: Common manifestations include fatigue, jaundice,
dark-colored urine, abdominal discomfort, reduced appetite, and pale
stools.
● Health Risks: Long-term infection with Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C can lead
to severe liver damage, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma
(liver cancer).
● Prevention of Hepatitis B: India promotes universal immunization against
Hepatitis B through the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). A birth
dose is recommended within 24 hours of delivery, while Hepatitis B
Immunoglobulin (HBIG) is administered to infants born to HBV-infected
mothers.
● World Hepatitis Day: Observed annually on 28 July in honor of Dr. Baruch
Blumberg, whose research led to the discovery of the Hepatitis B virus.
● Disease Burden in India: According to the 2021 seroprevalence survey,
Hepatitis B prevalence stood at 0.85% and Hepatitis C at 0.29%, indicating
that approximately one in 118 people and one in 345 people, respectively,
were affected. India carries the second-largest global burden of Hepatitis B
and C infections.
● National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP): Introduced in
2018, the programme aims to eliminate Hepatitis C as a public health
threat by 2030 and significantly reduce hepatitis-related mortality.
● Role of NACP: The National AIDS Control Programme conducts
screening for Hepatitis B and C among populations considered at higher
risk of infection.
● Significance: India’s multi-sectoral approach combines immunization,
surveillance, screening, treatment, and public health interventions to
reduce the burden of viral hepatitis and move toward the global elimination
targets.