This World Hepatitis Day, we’re joining organisations around the world to help break down the barriers that prevent people from accessing hepatitis testing, treatment and support.
This years theme, “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down”, calls for urgent action to dismantle the financial, social and systemic barriers, including stigma, that stand in the way of eliminating viral hepatitis and preventing liver cancer.
Many of those barriers aren’t medical. Stigma, misinformation and fear can stop people from getting tested or seeking help, even though hepatitis is preventable, treatable and, in the case of hepatitis C, curable.
By sharing the facts, we can help more people access the care they need and move closer to eliminating viral hepatitis in Scotland.
Many people with hepatitis have no symptoms, which is why increasing awareness and making testing easy and accessible are so important.
Chris Ward, Senior Services and Health Improvement Manager, explains:
“Ending hepatitis is within our reach, but it won’t happen through medical advances alone. We also need to break down the stigma, misinformation and inequalities that stop people accessing testing, treatment and support.
“We know that many people with hepatitis have no symptoms, which is why increasing awareness and making testing easy and accessible are so important. With effective treatments available for hepatitis C and vaccination helping prevent hepatitis B, we have the tools to make a real difference.
“This World Hepatitis Day, let’s continue working together to ensure everyone has the knowledge, confidence and support they need to look after their liver health.”
Five things everyone should know about hepatitis
- Many people with hepatitis don’t experience symptoms
One of the biggest challenges with viral hepatitis is that many people feel completely well. It is possible to live with hepatitis B or hepatitis C for years without noticing any symptoms.
That’s why testing is so important. A simple test can provide reassurance or, if needed, help you access treatment early before serious liver damage develops.
- Hepatitis A, B and C are different viruses
“Hepatitis” simply means inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis A, hepatitis B and C are all different viruses. They are passed on in different ways, have different methods of prevention, and require different treatments. Understanding these differences helps people make informed decisions about protecting their health.
- Hepatitis B can often be prevented through vaccination
There is a safe and effective vaccine that protects against hepatitis B.
Vaccination is recommended for people at increased risk of infection, helping to prevent illness before it starts and reducing transmission within communities.
- Hepatitis C can be cured
One of the biggest advances in recent years is the development of highly effective treatments for hepatitis C.
Modern medication is simple to take, has few side effects and cures the vast majority of people. A diagnosis is no longer something to fear—it’s the first step towards a cure.
- Testing is confidential
Getting tested for hepatitis is confidential, and support is available throughout the process.
Whether your result is negative or positive, knowing your status gives you the information you need to make informed decisions about your health. If treatment is needed, help is available.
Breaking down stigma
Stigma remains one of the biggest obstacles to eliminating hepatitis.
Misunderstandings about how hepatitis is passed on can lead to fear, shame and discrimination. No one should feel judged for seeking a test, asking questions or accessing treatment.
By talking openly about hepatitis and sharing accurate information, we can challenge myths, reduce stigma and help create a society where everyone feels able to access healthcare without fear or judgement.
How Waverley Care can help
At Waverley Care, we provide free, confidential support for people affected by hepatitis across Scotland.
Our team offers information, advice and practical support to help people understand their diagnosis, access treatment and live well. Whether you’re looking for information, have questions about testing, or need ongoing support, we’re here to help.
As well as supporting individuals, we work alongside healthcare providers and partner organisations to improve awareness, reduce stigma and help ensure more people can access testing and treatment when they need it.
Find out more
You can find out more about hepatitis, including prevention, testing and treatment here.
If you or someone you know is looking for support, you can also find out more about Waverley Care’s Hepatitis Services, including how to access free, confidential advice and support from our team here .
Help us break down barriers
Every day, Waverley Care supports people affected by hepatitis and HIV to access the information, care and support they need to live well.
Your support helps us provide confidential advice, reduce stigma through education, and ensure more people can access life-changing testing and treatment.
This World Hepatitis Day, you can help us break down the barriers of stigma, misinformation and inequality.
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