Global Hepatitis Deaths Rise to 1.3 Million Annually, WHO Reports

Despite advancements in prevention and treatment, viral hepatitis remains a leading cause of infectious death, with a growing number of fatalities.

The WHO's 2024 Global Hepatitis Report reveals a rise in deaths from viral hepatitis, from 1.1 million in 2019 to 1.3 million in 2022.
Every day, approximately 3,500 people die from hepatitis B and C infections globally.
Despite the availability of effective and affordable treatments, diagnosis and treatment rates are critically low, with only 13% of those with hepatitis B and 36% with hepatitis C diagnosed.
High costs and access barriers prevent many from receiving treatment, with significant disparities in pricing and service delivery across regions.
The WHO emphasizes the need for swift action and increased funding to meet the 2030 elimination goal and reduce the global burden of hepatitis.