WHO Urges Urgent Action to Combat Rising Hepatitis-Related Liver Cancer in South-East Asia
The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for immediate efforts to enhance access to prevention, vaccination, diagnosis, and treatment of viral hepatitis B and C in South-East Asia, as liver cancer deaths continue to rise alarmingly in the region.
More details in the following report:
In a recent statement, WHO highlighted that liver cancer is now the fourth leading cause of cancer mortality in South-East Asia, particularly affecting men. Approximately 75% of liver cirrhosis cases are attributed to hepatitis B and C infections. With nearly 70.5 million individuals living with these viruses in the region as of 2022, the need for early detection and treatment is critical. WHO predicts that liver cancer deaths could double by 2050 without urgent intervention.
Ms. Saima Wazed, WHO’s Regional Director for South-East Asia, emphasized the importance of equitable access to healthcare services, stating, “We have the knowledge and tools to prevent, diagnose, and treat viral hepatitis, yet many are still waiting for the care they need.” The theme for this year’s World Hepatitis Day is “It’s time for action.”
Globally, hepatitis B and C are responsible for approximately 3,500 deaths daily, with 6,000 new infections reported each day. In 2022, viral hepatitis claimed 1.3 million lives, equaling deaths caused by tuberculosis, and remains a significant public health challenge.
Testing and treatment coverage in the South-East Asia region is alarmingly low, with only 2.8% of hepatitis B cases diagnosed and a mere 3.5% receiving treatment. For hepatitis C, only 26% were diagnosed, and just 14% treated.
To combat this crisis, WHO advocates for community-based testing and treatment, integrated into universal health coverage. Investing in hepatitis interventions could yield a return of $2–3 for every dollar spent, underscoring the potential for both health and economic benefits. “It’s time for action,” Ms. Wazed concluded, urging collective efforts to save lives and prevent future infections.
