World Hepatitis Day takes place every year on 28 July – a day dedicated to raising awareness of viral hepatitis and trying to make a difference.
This year the theme they are focussing on is “Can’t wait”:
- People living with viral hepatitis unaware can’t wait for testing
- People living with hepatitis can’t wait for life-saving treatments
- Expectant mothers can’t wait for hepatitis screening and treatment
- Newborn babies can’t wait for birth dose vaccination
- People affected by hepatitis can’t wait to end stigma and discrimination
- Community organisations can’t wait for greater investment
- Decision makers can’t wait and must act now to make hepatitis elimination a reality through political will and funding.
The campaign will amplify the voices of people affected by viral hepatitis calling for immediate action and the end of stigma and discrimination.
Every 30 seconds, someone dies from a hepatitis-related illness.
What is hepatitis?
Hepatitis is a term used to describe inflammation of the liver and can cause many symptoms including joint pain, nausea, muscle pain, loss of appetite, dark urine, and itchy skin. The World Health Organisation estimates that approximately 251 million people are chronically infected with hepatitis B virus and 71 million people with the hepatitis C virus.
Causes of hepatitis
Heavy alcohol use, toxins, some medications, and some medical conditions can cause hepatitis. There is currently no cure for hepatitis, however, treatment can help to manage the condition and increase life expectancy.
Consequences of a delay in diagnosing hepatitis
A delay in diagnosing hepatitis can have significant and damaging consequences. If clinical staff have failed to carry out the tests to diagnose hepatitis then damage to the liver could occur, which could lead to a successful clinical negligence claim.
If you have had a delayed diagnosis of hepatitis then get in touch with our Clinical Negligence team who will be happy to discuss your concern
Resources for finding out more about hepatitis are available here.
How can we help?
If you have any questions in relation to the subjects discussed in this article, then please get in touch with a member of our expert Medical Negligence team in Derby, Leicester, or Nottingham on 0800 024 1976 or via our online form.
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