On World Hepatitis Day, 28 July, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) highlighted the ongoing public health challenges posed by hepatitis B and C, which are major risk factors for liver cancer in Europe.

Chronic hepatitis, caused by hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) virus infections, is a significant risk factor for liver cancer and the sixth leading cause of cancer-related death in Europe, with chronic hepatitis causing almost 55,000 deaths in Europe in 2022.

Approximately 3.6 million people in the EU/EEA are chronically infected with HBV, and 1.8 million with HCV. The incidence of these infections, as well as access to hepatitis prevention and care, varies between countries and groups. Rates are particularly high among vulnerable groups, such as people who inject drugs, those in prison, and some immigrant/migrant populations.

Effective prevention measures exist for both hepatitis B and C, including vaccination against HBV and harm reduction measures to prevent bloodstream infections among injection drug users. Effective treatments are also available for both infections, which can significantly reduce the chances of serious liver disease and cancer.

A significant number of people are not diagnosed until the disease is advanced with cirrhosis and liver cancer already developed. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that globally, the majority of hepatitis B and C infections are undiagnosed. This highlights the urgent need to promote testing. Hepatitis B and C are diagnosed with a blood test that any doctor can administer, and the results are available within a few days.

ECDC calls for increased efforts and collaboration between governments, health professionals, and communities to increase the chances of eradicating hepatitis B and C. Key strategies include strengthening vaccination programs, implementing targeted testing, ensuring access to care for all, and enhancing prevention efforts by adopting these measures, we can work towards a healthier future for all.

The Chief Epidemiologist

Further reading:

• About hepatitis on the Directorate of Health website

• ECDC

• WHO