Towards a Hepatitis-Free Future: Prevention, Early Detection and Elimination

Abstract

Viral hepatitis remains a major global public health concern, causing more than one million deaths annually despite the availability of effective preventive and therapeutic measures [1]. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) account for the majority of hepatitis-related mortality due to delayed diagnosis, inadequate vaccination coverage, and limited access to treatment. The World Health Organization (WHO) has set a goal to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030; however, current progress remains insufficient to achieve these targets [2]. This review highlights key strategies for hepatitis prevention, including vaccination, harm-reduction approaches, early diagnosis, and timely treatment. It also examines successful elimination programmes in Egypt and Mongolia, demonstrating the importance of political commitment, population-based screening, affordable therapy, and strengthened healthcare systems [17,26]. Achieving hepatitis elimination requires effective implementation of existing tools, improved access to healthcare, and sustained public health efforts worldwide.