PATIENTS, policy-makers and experts from around the world will meet in Glasgow this September to discuss global efforts to tackle viral hepatitis.
The first World Hepatitis Summit will be held at the SECC on 2-4 September.
The three day gathering is a World Hepatitis Alliance and World Health Organisation event; hosted by the Scottish Government and supported by Health Protection Scotland and Glasgow Caledonian University.
It will be attended by patient groups, Government Ministers and policy-makers and public health experts from around the world.
Today is World Hepatitis Day, which aims to raise awareness of viral hepatitis. The disease is one of the top 10 causes of global death, costing 1.4 million lives every year.
There are more than 400 million people chronically infected with hepatitis B and C worldwide.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “Scotland is committed to eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health concern, and the Scottish Government will do what it can to support global efforts to achieve this goal.
“The innovation of new therapies for hepatitis C is a watershed moment for viral hepatitis, but we must not lose focus on the vital issue of prevention of disease.
“Scotland will continue to invest in prevention initiatives and this must be a central part of any national and international plan.”
Charles Gore, President of the World Hepatitis Alliance said: “The seventh leading cause of death in the world, the global burden of viral hepatitis is staggering.
“Advocacy is going to be critical to ensure that we have the resources, both human and financial, to tackle this epidemic. It is therefore crucial that the voice of hepatitis patients is at the forefront of any effective national response and the Summit is a unique opportunity to make this happen.”
