DPH Recognizes World Hepatitis Day, Encourages Testing

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 26, 2024

COLUMBIA, S.C. – On July 28, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) will join people and organizations across the globe to observe World Hepatitis Day under the theme, "It’s time for action.”  

World Hepatitis Day, coordinated by the World Hepatitis Alliance, aims to raise awareness about viral hepatitis and mobilize efforts to eliminate these diseases by 2030, in line with the global goals set by the World Health Organization (WHO).  

In South Carolina, hepatitis continues to be a major health burden on many in our communities. Chronic hepatitis B and C can lead to liver disease, cancer and death if untreated. Hepatitis A, while usually a mild to moderate illness, caused increased hospitalizations during a statewide outbreak in South Carolina that began in 2018 and ended in 2022.  

“Hepatitis is a hidden illness,” said Ali Mansaray, director of the STD/HIV/Viral Hepatitis Section. "Millions of Americans are living with chronic hepatitis and don’t know they are infected. The only way to find out is to be tested. Detecting viral hepatitis early can help people avoid serious outcomes such as liver cancer or the need for a liver transplant.” 

In 2023, 573 cases of chronic hepatitis B and 2,482 cases of chronic hepatitis C were diagnosed in South Carolina. The counties with the highest number of cases of chronic hepatitis B are Greenville, Richland and Spartanburg, while the counties with the highest number of cases of chronic hepatitis C are Richland, Greenville and Horry counties, respectively.  

"The theme, ‘It’s time for action’ underscores the urgency of addressing viral hepatitis," said Tina Skinner, HIV/ Viral Hepatitis Counseling, Testing and Linkage Unit Manager. “This World Hepatitis Day, we urge health care providers and our community partners to prioritize viral hepatitis elimination efforts." 

The best way to prevent viral hepatitis infection and liver damage is to be vaccinated for hepatitis A and B and for adults aged 18 to 79 years old to be screened for hepatitis C. People diagnosed with hepatitis C can be treated and cured of the infection, and the risk of further liver damage can be prevented or reduced.  

Key activities for World Hepatitis Day 2024 include virtual and in-person events such as webinars, workshops and community outreach programs. These activities aim to educate the public about the importance of early diagnosis, prevention strategies and the role of vaccination in reducing the burden of hepatitis-related liver disease. To learn more, visit the World Hepatitis Day website.  

To learn more about hepatitis, visit DPH’s hepatitis webpage. To find hepatitis, STD and HIV services in your areas, visit DPH’s HIV, STD and hepatitis service locator. 

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