India, July 29 -- AIIMS New Delhi marked World Hepatitis Day 2026 by highlighting the growing burden of viral hepatitis in India and emphasising the importance of awareness, early diagnosis and preventive healthcare. This year's observance was held under the theme, "Hepatitis: Let's Break It Down", focusing on addressing stigma, misinformation and barriers to the prevention, testing and treatment of hepatitis. According to information shared by the institute, hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by viral infections, alcohol, certain medicines and other factors. While hepatitis A and E generally result in acute infections, hepatitis B and C can progress to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis and liver cancer if left untreated. AIIMS noted that treatment for hepatitis C can cure more than 95 per cent of patients, whereas hepatitis B requires long-term antiviral therapy to control the infection.
The institute said India continues to bear one of the world's highest burdens of viral hepatitis, accounting for nearly 12 per cent of global cases. It estimates that around 40 million people in the country are living with chronic hepatitis B, while between 6 million and 12 million have hepatitis C. AIIMS also drew attention to the growing burden of lifestyle-related liver disease, saying alcohol consumption and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), are emerging causes of cirrhosis and liver cancer. Citing recent studies, it said nearly 38 per cent of Indians, including around 35 per cent of children, are affected by fatty liver disease. The institute urged people to adopt healthier lifestyles by avoiding alcohol, maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly and undergoing timely screening where appropriate. WHO aims to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030 through awareness, vaccination, early diagnosis and improved treatment access.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.