Bangladesh is observing World Hepatitis Day-2024 today (July 28) in a bid to raise awareness against the deadly virus, with the theme 'It's time for action'.

The day is observed every year on July 28 to increase awareness of different forms of hepatitis and methods of its prevention and treatment.

This day is observed to mark the birthday of Nobel Prize-winning scientist Dr Baruch Blumberg, to honour him as he discovered the Hepatitis B virus (HBV).

In Bangladesh, the government and different non-government organizations usually chalk out various programmes, including seminars, rallies and health campaigns, to observe the day.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina issued a message on the eve of the day.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in her message, said a total of 1.3 million people die every year due to hepatitis in the world, which is constantly increasing.

"Hepatitis is one of the causes of liver cancer. Therefore, to achieve the goal of eradication of hepatitis, it is necessary to create mass awareness," the premier added.

BDST: 1014 HRS, JULY 28, 2024
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