Monday May 19 marks World Hepatitis Day, the first day of World Hepatitis Awareness Week, which runs until May 26.
World Hepatitis Awareness Week focuses on raising awareness and political attention for chronic viral hepatitis.
The Hepatitis Council of WA estimates that about 500 million people worldwide are affected by hepatitis B or hepatitis C, which equates to one in every 12 people on the planet, and is more than 10 times the number infected with HIV/AIDS.
Most of the 500 million are unaware they are living with the chronic infection. Hepatitis C affects 260,000 Australians and Hepatitis B affects 150,000.
Hepatitis B and C kill 1.5 million people a year and one in every three people has been exposed to either or both viruses.
The global theme for 2008's World Hepatitis Awareness Week is: “Am I number 12?”, which is a reference to the shocking statistic that one in 12 people in the world are living with chronic hepatitis B or C.
Australia, together with over 200 countries will take part in the first global hepatitis awareness event, which aims to publicise the need for urgent action to stem the epidemics of hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
Every state and territory in Australia will participate in World Hepatitis Awareness Week with events including forums, local BBQ picnics, information stalls, education sessions and movie screenings.
WA's launch event will take place at a symposium at the Hyatt Regency Perth on May 19.
Titled '“C Changes” Enhancing access to hepatitis C treatments in the prison setting and beyond', the symposium focuses on enhancing access to hepatitis C treatment for people whilst they are in prison, and on their release from prison and re-establishment in the community.
Being in prison is considered an independent risk factor for hepatitis C.
For information about prevention, testing and treatments, contact 9328 8538, 1800 800 070 or visit www.hepatitiswa.com.au
