Hepatitis is a global issue that demands urgent attention. That's why this year's World Hepatitis Day (28 July) carries the powerful theme of "We're Not Waiting". It's a call to action to increase efforts in eliminating hepatitis and recognizing those who are already making a positive impact in their lives and communities. This campaign is driven by the belief that we can eliminate hepatitis by 2030 through community action and collective determination.
Joining the cause, the Multicultural HIV and Hepatitis Service (MHAHS) is promoting its booklet "Hepatitis B. It's Family Business." This comprehensive booklet has been specifically designed for individuals from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. It is available in multiple languages including English, Arabic, Chinese, Indonesian, Khmer, Korean, Thai, and Vietnamese. You can download the e-booklet here or order hard copies by contacting MHAHS.
"We cannot afford to delay hepatitis B testing. Many people in our community might not even realize they have chronic hepatitis B," warned Professor Benjamin Cowie, director of the Australian WHO Collaborating Centre for Viral Hepatitis at the Doherty Institute, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.
"It is important to understand that without proper care and treatment, hepatitis B can progress to liver cancer, which is truly alarming. Shockingly, every 30 seconds, someone around the world loses their life to a hepatitis-related illness in 2023. That's why early diagnosis and prompt treatment are absolutely vital to prevent these heartbreaking outcomes. The only way to know for sure if you have hepatitis B is by undergoing a simple test. Don't wait, get tested today."
In Australia, an estimated 200,385 people were living with chronic hepatitis B by the end of 2021. Among them, around 76% were born overseas, with Southeast Asia and Northeast Asia contributing significantly to these numbers. In NSW nearly 72,058 people are living with chronic hepatitis B, but less than 27% are receiving regular care and treatment. This disproportionately affects community members born overseas.
That's why the "Are you living with hepatitis B? Find Out. Get Tested" campaign is urging people from diverse communities to prioritize their liver health and get tested for hepatitis B. The campaign's messages are available in English, Arabic, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese to ensure accessibility and inclusivity.
"We are fully committed to helping our diverse communities prioritize their well-being and liver health," stated Gai Stackpool, Deputy Manager of the Multicultural HIV and Hepatitis Service.
"Our campaign provides individuals with culturally relevant information, empowering them to make informed choices and take meaningful action."
We strongly encourage community members to consult their doctors about hepatitis B and schedule a test. Hepatitis B testing is free if you have a Medicare card. For those without a Medicare Card, please contact NSW Health Sexual Health Clinics regarding free Hepatitis testing. Remember, all conversations with your doctor in Australia remain confidential.
For interviews in languages other than English, please call Sonam Paljor on 0436 649 000 or email
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