Breaking Barriers, Building Health: Reaching Vulnerable Communities to Eliminate Viral Hepatitis

World Hepatitis Day is not just a day on the calendar; it’s a rallying cry to empower communities, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and individuals alike to join forces in the fight against viral hepatitis. With over 300 million people affected worldwide and more than 1 million lives lost annually due to this silent epidemic, it is critical we unite to take action.

[Eliso Dagiada is a member of the VH-COMSAVAC Greece team.]

Viral hepatitis knows no borders and affects people from all walks of life. It is a significant public health concern with far-reaching consequences for individuals and societies. While viral hepatitis infections pose a major public health threat, particularly among vulnerable populations such as migrants and refugees from countries with documented high prevalence of viral hepatitis, it is also preventable and treatable. Through effective prevention measures such as vaccination, early diagnosis, and increased and public awareness, we can heavily reduce the incidence of new infections. Accessible and person-centered-testing and early diagnosis are crucial in identifying cases and linking individuals to appropriate care and treatment. In doing so, we will reduce the overall burden of these infections and reduce the risk of liver cancer morbidity and mortality, as set out in Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan which also aligns with the World Health Organization (WHO)'s Global Health Sector Strategy on Viral Hepatitis 2016-2021.

Through effective prevention measures such as vaccination, early diagnosis, and increased and public awareness, we can heavily reduce the incidence of new infections

The Multi-country Viral Hepatitis Community Screening, Vaccination, and Care program (VH-COMSAVAC) stands tall as a testament to the world’s commitment to uplifting and safeguarding lives, particularly those of some of the most vulnerable members of our societies. With the final aim to reduce mortality associated with liver cancer in Europe, this project is increasing testing for viral hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) and vaccination for HBV among migrants and refugees living in Greece, Italy and Spain.

Significant barriers

The project has only recently begun and yet, during the implementation of the program in Greece, the team of the Hellenic Liver Patients Association “Prometheus” has identified significant barriers preventing migrants and refugees from engaging with the health system in Greece. Migrants and refugees frequently face bureaucratic challenges in obtaining necessary documents, such as residence permits or health insurance cards, which are essential for accessing healthcare services and ensuring Universal Health Coverage (UHC). In addition, language differences can create obstacles in communicating with healthcare providers and understanding medical needs and instructions. Further, social stigma and discrimination, as well as traumatic events before and during their journey to Greece can impact their willingness to seek healthcare services or engage with the healthcare system. Overall, these barriers that contribute to the low interaction of these vulnerable communities with their host health system can hinder progress towards achieving the targets set out by the WHO to eliminate viral hepatitis as a major public health challenge.

Urgent need for equitable healthcare

Universal Health Coverage (UHC) can contribute to the uptake of health services among vulnerable communities by ensuring healthcare is accessible and inclusive for all. It addresses the root causes of health inequities and ensures that all individuals, regardless of their circumstances, have an equal opportunity to lead healthy lives. By providing universal health coverage that includes migrants and refugees, societies demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity, safeguarding public health, and upholding the fundamental principles of human rights and social justice. By ensuring that everyone, regardless of their migration status, has equal access to comprehensive and equitable healthcare services, we foster the growth of healthy and resilient communities, and prioritize the well-being of the entire population, including in the race to eliminate viral hepatitis by the year 2030.

By providing universal health coverage that includes migrants and refugees, societies demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity, safeguarding public health, and upholding the fundamental principles of human rights and social justice

In a world characterized by diversity and interconnectedness, the health and well-being of every individual should be a top priority. By recognizing the urgent need for equitable healthcare, we can work towards breaking down barriers and building a world that values every individual’s right to health. The work of the VH-COMSAVAC program contributes to equitable access to healthcare and tackles barriers by providing targeted testing, vaccination, and care for viral hepatitis among migrants and refugees, thus ensuring that some of the most vulnerable members of society have equal access to life-saving healthcare services and ultimately reducing the burden of liver cancer mortality in Europe.