Every year on July 28, the world observes World Hepatitis Day, a reminder that millions of people are living with viral hepatitis without even knowing it. Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, an organ responsible for filtering toxins, storing nutrients, and helping digest food. While some forms of hepatitis cause only short-term illness, others can become chronic and silently damage the liver for years, eventually leading to cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.

The five main hepatitis viruses are hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, but hepatitis B and C account for the majority of severe liver disease worldwide. One reason these infections remain a major public health concern is that many people have no symptoms until significant liver damage has already occurred. This is why hepatitis is often called a "silent disease."

The good news is that many cases of viral hepatitis can be prevented. Hepatitis A is commonly spread through contaminated food or water and can be prevented by practicing good hand hygiene, ensuring food is prepared safely, and getting vaccinated. Hepatitis B spreads through contact with infected blood and body fluids, including from mother to child during birth, through unprotected sex, or by sharing needles. Fortunately, a safe and highly effective vaccine has been available for decades. Completing the hepatitis B vaccination series provides long-lasting protection and is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of infection.

Unlike hepatitis B, there is currently no vaccine for hepatitis C. However, it can often be cured with modern antiviral medications if detected early. Because hepatitis C is primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact, avoiding the sharing of needles or personal items such as razors and toothbrushes can help reduce the risk. Medical and cosmetic procedures should also be performed only in facilities that follow proper infection-control practices and use sterile equipment.

Screening plays a crucial role in preventing complications. Individuals who have risk factors—such as receiving blood transfusions before routine screening was introduced in their country, healthcare workers with occupational exposure, people with a history of injection drug use, or those born to mothers with hepatitis B—should discuss hepatitis testing with their healthcare provider. Early diagnosis allows timely treatment, prevents liver damage, and reduces transmission to others.

Keeping your liver healthy goes beyond avoiding infections. Maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and using medications responsibly all help protect liver function. Since the liver works continuously to process everything we eat, drink, and absorb, everyday lifestyle choices have a lasting impact on its health.

World Hepatitis Day is more than just a date on the calendar. It is an opportunity to raise awareness, encourage vaccination and testing, and remind communities that hepatitis is both preventable and, in many cases, treatable. By learning the facts and taking simple preventive steps, each of us can contribute to reducing the burden of liver disease and helping more people live healthier, longer lives.