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 Washington, DC., July 26, 2012 (PAHO/WHO)- “It
is closer than you think” is this year’s campaign slogan
Viral
hepatitis is a main contributor to severe illness and death worldwide,
constituting a major public health problem. Hepatitis is a hidden
disease affecting the Americas. Some preventive measures, such as
hepatitis A and B vaccination or screening of donated blood, have been
implemented in the Region.
However, many asymptomatic people still carry the virus without
knowing, raising the possibility of transmission. Moreover, diagnosis
and treatment of hepatitis remain a challenge in the Region. PAHO has
led the development of a regional strategy and action plan for viral
hepatitis to reduce the burden of viral hepatitis infection and disease
in the Americas by improving surveillance, prevention, diagnosis,
treatment, monitoring and control.
To mark this achievement, PAHO held
the commemoration of World Hepatitis Day with the participation of Jon
Secada, singer-songwriter and a PAHO Champion of Health, whose
commitment in the fight against viral hepatitis in the Americas was
recognized.
Note:
Jon Secada was named a PAHO Champion of
Health in 2002. He has helped the Organization raise awareness about
issues including environmental health, juvenile violence, and teen
pregnancy and has participated in prevention campaigns reaching all of
Latin America. Mr. Secada, a Cuban-American, is a three-time Grammy
award-winning recording artist and songwriter who has released a string
of hits in both Spanish and English.
RELATED LINKS
• PAHO- Hepatitis
• PAHO-World Hepatitis Day
• Champions of Health
For more information please contact:
Lorely Ambriz, M.S.I.S, Knowledge Management & Communication
Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) / A Regional Office of the World
Health Organization (WHO) United States-Mexico Border Office
5400 Suncrest Dr. Ste. C-4 El Paso, TX 79912
Office (915) 845-5950 Ext. 42523 / Cel (915) 449-3040 / Fax (915) 845-4361
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