July 28, 2014
World Hepatitis Day is an annual opportunity to bring attention to chronic viral hepatitis B and C in Canada and around the world. It is estimated that hepatitis affects over half a million Canadians and one in 12 people worldwide.
Despite available treatments, nearly 1 in 5 people with hepatitis C do not know they are infected, and remain undiagnosed. Left untreated, hepatitis B and C can lead to serious health consequences, including severe damage to the liver or liver cancer.
All Canadians can play a role in stopping the spread of hepatitis, by learning more about how to reduce their risk of infection, speaking to their health care providers about testing, and obtaining proper care and support services if infected.
The Government of Canada is also a committed partner in this important health challenge. We continue to provide funding to projects at the community level, which help prevent the spread of viral hepatitis and improve the lives of those infected with or affected by the disease through research, prevention and community-based support. The Public Health Agency of Canada, in partnership with provinces and territories, conducts hepatitis surveillance. We also work closely with all government partners, to ensure that all efforts to address hepatitis across Canada are evidence-based, timely and responsive.
Globally, Hepatitis remains one of the most common causes of death, reinforcing the importance of global efforts against this disease. The Government is proud to support these efforts, funding the establishment of the Global Hepatitis C Network in Canada. This Network, along with the Canadian Society for International Health, are important players in Canada’s global strategy, helping raise awareness in Canada and internationally, facilitating collaboration and capacity-building.
This World Hepatitis Day, please join me in recognizing the hard work and dedication of public health and healthcare professionals, researchers and communities. For more information on World Hepatitis Day, I encourage you to visit World Hepatitis Day Canada.
Rona Ambrose
Minister of Health
Government of Canada
