Uniquely Singapore

Posted on August 9, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

Today is my adopted home’s 59th birthday. Having lived here for more than two decades now, I call this little sunny island, the red dot, home as much as I believe Mumbai is home. Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and innovations. To celebrate its 59^th birthday, here’s what makes it different and Uniquely Singapore!

Singapore is the only island city-state in the world, making it a unique blend of urban and natural environments.
Singapore was once a trading settlement in the 13^th century, known as Temasek or Dan Ma Xi by Chinese sources. This settlement was inhabited by fishermen and pirates and was a centre for a wide trading network.
According to legend, the Sumatran prince Sang Nila Utama spotted a grand lion standing on the island after a thunderstorm, leading to the name “Singapura” or “Lion City”
During World War II, Old Changi Hospital was seized by the Japanese and used as a medical facility for war casualties and injured military personnel. It was also used by the Kempeitai, the Japanese military police, who were known for their inhumane torture techniques.
In the 1960s, the Singaporean government implemented a policy prohibiting men from keeping long hair, as part of an effort to nullify the influence of the hippie subculture. This ban was later rescinded in the 1990s.
Singapore nearly had its own Disneyland, with plans to build a theme park between the Yio Chu Kang and Khatib MRT stations. However, the project was scrapped due to land scarcity and financial disputes.
Singapore has the highest number of millionaires per capita in Asia. One in 10 households contains a millionaire, according to the Boston Consulting Group’s Global Wealth Report.
Singapore’s gross domestic product per person is the world’s highest at $61,577.
The world’s most impressive swimming pool sits atop the Marina Bay Sands hotel, which looks like a spaceship marooned on three skyscrapers.
Once upon a time, Singapore was wiped out from the world map. In 1613, Portuguese pirates burned the city down, leaving the city obsolete for more than a hundred years until migrants from around the region started setting camp, raising it from its ashes. In 1819, Sir Stamford Raffles established a British trading post, and word about Singapore got around.
Singapore’s time zones changed 6 times. Singapore was seven hours ahead of GMT from 1905 to 1932. Then, it moved 20 minutes forward from 1933 to 1941, and a further 10 minutes from 1941 to 1942. During the Japanese occupation in World War II, clocks moved an hour and 30 minutes ahead to sync with Japan. After World War II, When the war ended, clocks moved back and finally settled to sync with Malaysia in 1982.
Singapore is also known as a Garden City because of the lush greenery across the country.
Singapore is home to the tallest indoor waterfall at the Jewel in Changi Airport. Standing at 40 metres and surrounded by the terminal’s lush indoor gardens, the HSBC Rain Vortex is a gorgeous sight, especially from 7.30 pm to midnight when the hourly light and sound show is in session.
Singapore is made up of the mainland and 63 smaller offshore islands, including St John’s Island, Kusu Island, Pulau Semakau, Pulau Ubin, Lazarus Island, and Sentosa, the largest of them all.
Singapore is home to a harmonious blend of Chinese, Malays, Indians, and Eurasians, each contributing to the country’s rich cultural tapestry.
English, Malay, Mandarin Chinese, and Tamil are the four official languages of Singapore, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage.
The national anthem is written in micro-text on the back of the SGD 1000 note.
The Tanjong Pagar Centre is Singapore’s tallest building, standing at 290 meters.
Singaporeans are known to be the fastest pedestrians in the world, walking at a speed of about 6.15 kilometres per hour.
The Tembusu Tree on the SGD 5 banknote is an actual living tree in the Botanic Gardens.
Singapore celebrates National Tree Planting Day on November 7th each year.
The iconic Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay are a testament to Singapore’s innovative approach to urban planning.
Singapore offers ghost tours, exploring the city’s spooky side.
Street performers or buskers add to the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Singapore has both natural and man-made waterfalls, including the one at the Cloud Forest in Gardens by the Bay.
The Night Safari is the world’s first nocturnal zoo, offering a unique wildlife experience with more than 130 species of nocturnal animals in their natural habitat without any barriers.
The historic landmark CHIJMES, was once a girls’ school and now houses restaurants and bars.
The Kebun Baru Birdsinging Club is the largest songbird display area in Singapore.
Seletar was once Singapore’s first airbase and now features cafes and restaurants amidst lush greenery.
Sembawang Hot Spring Park features a natural hot spring and a floral walk.
Coney Island in Punggol is a popular spot for nature lovers.
Wallace Trail in Dairy Farm Nature Park is perfect for mountain bikers.
The Bukit Brown Cemetery is one of the largest and last-remaining graveyards in Singapore.
Singapore celebrates National Children’s Day on October 1st.
The Singapore Kindness Movement aims to promote kindness, honesty, and good manners.
Singapore is known for its strict laws and fines for minor offences and so is known as a “Fine City”.
Elevators in Singapore have urine detection devices that set off alarms and shut the doors until authorities arrive.
Littering is taken very seriously in Singapore, with fines and public shaming for repeat offenders.
Changi Airport has been named the world’s best airport multiple times
Changi Airport offers free movie screenings 24/7.
Singapore’s passport is considered one of the best in the world, offering visa-free access to more than 192 countries in the world.
The Chinatown Complex Food Centre is Singapore’s largest hawker centre in Singapore, with over 700 food stalls.
Singapore is ranked as one of the easiest places to do business globally.
Singapore imports everything from sand to freshwater.
Singapore is the fifth-largest arms importer in the world.
The National Stadium has the biggest retractable dome in the world.
Two new restaurants open every day in Singapore.
Singaporeans do not need a visa to visit China, South Korea, North Korea, or the United States.
Singapore gained independence from Malaysia through a democratic vote.
Bukit Timah Hill is the tallest natural point in Singapore, standing at 164 meters.
The Singapore Flyer is a giant Ferris wheel that initially rotated counter-clockwise but was reversed due to Feng Shui concerns.
The Singapore film, Ilo Ilo won the Camera d’Or award at the Cannes Film Festival in 2013.
Tanjong Rimau is an area on the western tip of Singapore that features mangrove trails and secret caves.
The century-old Keppel Hill Reservoir is a hidden gem for hikers.
Singapore is famous for its street food, with popular dishes like chilli crab and Hainanese chicken rice.
Hawker Centres and Food Courts are a staple in the city-state, offering a wide variety of affordable and delicious food options.
Singapore hosts the world’s first night Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, a major international event.
Singapore’s public transport ranks fourth in the world after Hong Kong, Zurich, and Stockholm.
Singaporean sons and second-generation permanent residents are required to serve in National Service for two years.

Happy Birthday Singapore! May you stay the same, yet continue to prosper for years to come!

Poem: Beauty lies in the eyes of the Beholder

Posted on August 7, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

In the eyes of the beholder, beauty is found,
A prism of visions where judgments are crowned,
What one may see plain, another sees gold,
For beauty, my dear, is a story retold.

A petal in bloom, a star in the night,
A whisper of wind, the softest of light,
To one, a mere moment; to another, divine,
Each gaze is unique, and and each heart intertwines.

An ancient oak tree, gnarled and wise,
Its rough bark is a testament, under open skies,
Some see it as weathered, old and uncouth,
Others find magic in its ageless truth.

A smile with a gap, a laugh full of mirth,
A soul that finds joy in the simplest of earth,
Not perfect by standards, yet perfect in kind,
Beauty resides in the eye and the mind.

For mirrors can’t capture the depths of the soul,
Nor portraits define what makes us whole,
It’s the lens of the heart that colors the view,
In the eyes of the beholder, all things are true.

So cherish your visions, the ones that you keep,
For beauty is vast, and endlessly deep,
In the eye of the beholder, where dreams take their flight,
Every glance holds a wonder, every gaze, pure delight.

Adulting 101: Navigating Toxic Workplaces and Colleagues

Posted on August 5, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

The next edition of my Adulting 101 series is about workplace toxicity. For those reading this series for the first time, this series talks about how young adults can adjust to being adults. As young adults enter the workforce, they often face many challenges, from adapting to new responsibilities to navigating complex office dynamics. One of the most significant hurdles many encounter is dealing with toxic workplaces and colleagues.

So what constitutes a toxic workplace? A toxic workplace is characterised by an unhealthy and unproductive environment that negatively impacts the well-being and performance of its employees. This can manifest in various ways. Bullying and harassment, including verbal or physical abuse, intimidation, or humiliation by colleagues or supervisors, lack of communication and transparency because of poor communication, unclear expectations in decision-making processes or excessive workloads, unrealistic deadlines, and constant pressure to perform. Other ways may take the form of unsupportive management including managers who are unresponsive, unsupportive, or dismissive of employee concerns, a culture of gossip, rumours, and backstabbing that creates tension and mistrust or unfair treatment, favouritism, or bias towards certain employees based on personal relationships or demographics. Failure to recognise and appreciate employees’ efforts and contributions, an unhealthy and cutthroat competition that fosters a culture of aggression and sabotage, poor work-life balance with expectations of long working hours, constant availability, and neglect of personal life and a lack of or limited opportunities for professional development, training, and career advancement.

How does one read the signs and red flags of a toxic workplace? To identify a toxic workplace, it is essential to be aware of the signs and red flags.

High Turnover Rate: If there is a high rate of employee turnover, it may indicate underlying issues with the work environment.
Negative Office Gossip: If colleagues frequently discuss negative aspects of the workplace or each other, it can create a toxic atmosphere.
Unhappiness and Burnout: If employees appear unhappy, stressed, or burnt out, it may be a sign of a toxic work environment.
Lack of Open Communication: If management or colleagues are unresponsive or secretive, it can indicate a lack of transparency.
Unfair Treatment: If you witness or experience unfair treatment, such as favouritism or bias, it is a significant red flag.

So how does one go about protecting themselves if they find they are in a toxic work environment? If one finds oneself in a toxic workplace, it is crucial to take steps to protect their well-being and career. Here are some strategies to help one navigate these challenging environments.

Document Everything: Keep a record of incidents, including dates, times, and details of what happened. This can be useful in case one needs to report issues or seek support.
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries with colleagues and management to maintain a healthy work-life balance and avoid over-committing.
Seek Support: Build a network of trusted colleagues, mentors, or friends who can offer emotional support and guidance.
Prioritise Self-Care: Make time for activities that promote physical and mental well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies.
Look for Resources: Familiarise oneself with company policies, HR procedures, and employee assistance programs that can provide support and guidance.
Consider Reporting Issues: If one experiences or witnesses harassment, bullying, or other serious issues, report them to HR or management.
Start Job Hunting: If the situation becomes unbearable, it may be time to explore new job opportunities.

Another aspect of a toxic workplace is having toxic colleagues. Dealing with toxic colleagues can be particularly challenging. So how can someone who is not very experienced recognise certain behaviours and characteristics? Here are some key indicators to look out for:

Negativity and Cynicism: Toxic colleagues often focus on problems rather than solutions and frequently badmouth their colleagues or the company.
Manipulation: They may make false statements, issue implicit threats, or exceed their competency limits.
Rudeness and Disrespect: Toxic colleagues can be confrontational, aggressive, and rude, creating an unbearable work environment.
Lack of Cooperation: They may resist collaboration and teamwork, making it difficult to work together effectively.
Self-Serving Behaviour: Toxic employees are often selfish, only willing to perform actions that benefit them directly, regardless of the impact on others.
Lack of Accountability: They rarely keep promises and refuse to take responsibility for their actions.
Gossiping and Trash-Talking: Spreading rumours and speaking negatively about others is a common trait of toxic colleagues.
Passive-Aggressive Behaviour: They may use sarcasm, ridicule, or negative body language to undermine others.
Micromanaging: Some toxic colleagues may be control freaks, constantly asserting control over others and imposing their opinions.
Unrealistic Expectations: They may set unrealistic goals or deadlines, leading to unnecessary stress and pressure on others.
Avoidance of Responsibility: Toxic colleagues often shift blame to others or make excuses for their own mistakes.
Negative Impact on Team Morale: If a colleague’s behaviour consistently affects the mood and productivity of the team, it may be a sign of toxicity.

By being aware of these signs, young adults can identify toxic colleagues early on and take steps to protect themselves and maintain a healthy work environment. Here are some tips to help one navigate these situations:

Stay Calm and Professional: Maintain a calm demeanour and professional attitude, even in the face of provocation.
Avoid Engaging: Refrain from engaging in gossip, arguments, or negative conversations that can escalate the situation.
Focus on One’s Work: One should concentrate on their tasks and responsibilities, and avoid getting distracted by toxic behaviour.
Set Clear Expectations: Communicate one’s expectations and boundaries clearly with colleagues to avoid misunderstandings.
Seek Mediation: If conflicts arise, consider seeking mediation from a supervisor or HR representative to resolve the issue.

Communication is key while handling toxic colleagues. Some effective communication strategies are:

Identify and Understand the Behaviour: Recognise the specific behaviours causing issues and keep track of incidents. This helps in addressing the root cause of the toxicity.
Private Discussion: Approach the toxic coworker in a private setting to discuss observations and concerns. Listen actively to their perspective without interruption, as it may uncover underlying personal or professional issues.
Set Clear Expectations and Boundaries: Communicate the expected behaviour and the consequences of not meeting those expectations. Ensure the coworker understands the impact of their actions on the team and the organisation. Set firm boundaries that define acceptable behaviour in the workplace.
Focus on Behaviour, not the Person: When addressing toxic behaviour, focus on specific actions rather than attacking the individual personally. This helps in maintaining a constructive and non-accusatory tone.
Use Specific Phrases to Defend Oneself: One should learn specific phrases to respond to toxic comments, such as acknowledging the comment without engaging or redirecting the conversation to a more productive topic.
Maintain Professionalism: Stay calm, patient, and professional in interactions with toxic coworkers. This helps in avoiding personal involvement in conflicts and maintaining a clear perspective on the situation.
Set Boundaries and Limit Interactions: Establish clear boundaries and limit interactions with toxic coworkers to professional matters. Avoid engaging in gossip or negative talk, and keep conversations brief and to the point.
Seek Support: If the situation becomes too challenging, seek help from supervisors, HR, or colleagues. This can provide additional guidance and support in managing the toxic coworker.

Young adults can build a support system at work to counteract toxic colleagues. They should build strong, positive relationships with colleagues and superiors who share their values and work ethic. This network can provide emotional support and help them navigate challenging situations. They should understand the motivations and behaviours of toxic colleagues. This can help them develop strategies to deal with them effectively and maintain a healthy work environment. They should also implement coping mechanisms such as focusing on their work, taking breaks, and practising self-care to maintain their mental well-being. They should minimise interactions with toxic colleagues and avoid engaging in gossip or conflicts. Instead, they should model a positive presence and maintain their integrity.

If necessary, one should involve their manager or HR in addressing toxic behaviour. They can help resolve issues and create a more positive work environment. One should also establish clear boundaries with colleagues and management to maintain a healthy work-life balance and avoid over-committing. Young adults should also practice self-care by taking care of their physical and mental health by eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. This helps them stay resilient in the face of toxic behaviour. Lastly, one should always try and tap into a support network. Express gratitude to supportive colleagues and use them as a reality check to ensure one is not overreacting to toxic behaviour. They can also provide valuable advice and help one stay focused on one’s work. By building a strong support system, young adults can better navigate the challenges posed by toxic colleagues and maintain a healthy and productive work environment.

Navigating a toxic workplace and dealing with toxic colleagues can be a daunting task, especially for young adults entering the workforce. By recognising the signs and red flags of a toxic workplace, taking steps to protect yourself, and learning to navigate challenging situations, one can minimise the negative impact on their well-being and career. Remember, everyone deserves a healthy and supportive work environment, and it is essential to prioritise their well-being and take action to create a positive and productive workspace.

Unveiling the World’s Most Expensive Cities: A Global Perspective

Posted on August 2, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

In our increasingly interconnected world, the cost of living has become a crucial factor in determining the quality of life and economic opportunities available to individuals and families. From the bustling metropolises of Asia to the cultural hubs of Europe and the financial powerhouses of North America, certain cities stand out as the most expensive places to call home.

According to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) Worldwide Cost of Living Survey for 2023, Singapore and Zurich, Switzerland, share the top spot as the world’s most expensive cities. This prestigious yet costly ranking is determined by analyzing the prices of over 200 goods and services across 173 cities worldwide, providing a comprehensive assessment of the cost of living.

The top 10 most expensive cities in the world for 2023 are:

Singapore and Zurich, Switzerland (tied for first place)
Geneva, Switzerland, and New York, USA (tied for third place)
Hong Kong
Los Angeles, USA
Paris, France
Copenhagen, Denmark, and Tel Aviv, Israel (tied for seventh place)
San Francisco, USA

Singapore’s position as the world’s most expensive city is a testament to its remarkable economic growth, strategic location, and unwavering commitment to urban development. This island city-state has consistently ranked among the top three most expensive cities for over a decade, holding the number one spot for nine out of the last eleven years.

Several factors contribute to Singapore’s high cost of living, including its limited land area, robust housing demand, and thriving business environment. The city’s reputation as a global financial hub and its strong currency have also played a role in driving up costs. Despite the high prices, Singapore continues to attract expatriates and multinational corporations, drawn by its efficient infrastructure, low crime rates, and business-friendly policies.

While living in one of the world’s most expensive cities can offer unparalleled opportunities and experiences, it also presents significant challenges. Housing costs, in particular, can be a major burden, with sky-high rents and property prices often forcing residents to compromise on living space or commute long distances.

Transportation expenses, including fuel, public transit, and vehicle maintenance, can also strain household budgets. Additionally, the cost of essential goods and services, such as healthcare, education, and utilities, can be substantially higher in these cities, further exacerbating the financial strain on residents.

Despite the challenges, many individuals and families find ways to navigate the high costs of living in these cities. One common strategy is to prioritise housing in more affordable neighbourhoods or suburbs, sacrificing proximity to the city centre for lower housing costs. Others opt for shared living arrangements, such as renting rooms or apartments with roommates, to split expenses.

Careful budgeting and financial planning are also essential for managing the high costs associated with these cities. Residents may need to make trade-offs between discretionary spending and essential expenses, prioritizing necessities while finding creative ways to enjoy leisure activities and entertainment within their means.

Despite the high costs, the world’s most expensive cities continue to attract people from all walks of life, drawn by the promise of economic opportunities, cultural richness, and a vibrant quality of life. These cities often boast thriving job markets, world-class educational institutions, and a diverse array of cultural attractions, making them appealing destinations for professionals, students, and those seeking new experiences.

Additionally, the prestige associated with living in these cities can be a powerful draw, as they are often perceived as global centres of influence, innovation, and sophistication. For some, the high cost of living is a trade-off for the opportunity to be part of these dynamic and cosmopolitan environments.

While no Indian city features in the top 10 most expensive cities globally, several major metropolitan areas in the country rank among the pricier locations for residents and expatriates alike.

Mumbai, India’s financial capital, is often cited as one of the most expensive cities in the country. According to the EIU’s Cost of Living Index, Mumbai ranks 118th globally, making it one of the more expensive cities in South Asia.

Delhi, the nation’s capital, follows closely behind at 120th place, with high housing costs and a thriving expatriate community contributing to its relatively high cost of living.

Other major Indian cities like Bengaluru (135th), Chennai (146th), and Kolkata (156th) also feature in the rankings, reflecting the diverse economic landscapes and varying costs of living across the country.

It’s important to note that these rankings are based on a basket of goods and services tailored to expatriate and international business traveller lifestyles, which may not fully reflect the cost of living for residents.

Several key factors contribute to the high costs of living in these cities, including:

Housing and Real Estate: Limited land availability, high demand, and robust real estate markets drive up housing costs, making rent and property prices a significant expense for residents.
Currency Strength: Cities with strong currencies, such as Singapore and Zurich, often experience higher costs for imported goods and services, contributing to an overall higher cost of living.
Expatriate Demand: Cities with large expatriate populations and multinational corporations tend to have higher costs associated with goods and services catering to these communities.
Taxes and Regulations: Local taxes, regulations, and policies can impact the cost of goods, services, and housing, influencing the overall cost of living in a city.
Transportation and Infrastructure: Well-developed transportation systems and robust infrastructure can drive up costs, particularly in densely populated urban areas.
Cost of Goods and Services: The prices of essential goods and services, such as healthcare, education, and utilities, can vary significantly across cities, impacting the overall cost of living.

While the high costs of living in these cities can be daunting, many residents find that the benefits of living in these dynamic and vibrant environments outweigh the financial challenges. Access to world-class amenities, diverse cultural experiences, and robust job markets can make the trade-off worthwhile for those who can afford it.

However, cities must strike a balance between maintaining their appeal and ensuring that the cost of living remains manageable for a diverse range of residents. Affordable housing initiatives, public transportation improvements, and policies that promote economic inclusivity can help mitigate the financial strain on residents and ensure that these cities remain accessible to a broader population.

The world’s most expensive cities are a testament to the global diversity of economic landscapes, cultural influences, and quality of life aspirations. While the high costs of living in these cities present significant challenges, they also offer unparalleled opportunities and experiences that continue to draw people from around the world.

As we navigate the ever-changing global economic landscape, it’s essential to recognize the factors that contribute to these high costs and explore strategies to ensure that these cities remain accessible and inclusive. By striking a balance between economic growth, urban development, and affordability, we can create vibrant and sustainable communities that offer a high quality of life for all residents, regardless of their financial means.

World Hepatitis Day

Posted on July 29, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

Every year on 28 July, the world comes together to commemorate World Hepatitis Day, a global health observance that aims to raise awareness about viral hepatitis and its devastating impact on individuals, communities, and healthcare systems worldwide. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address this silent epidemic and work towards a future free from the burden of hepatitis.

Hepatitis, derived from the Greek words hepar or liver and it is or inflammation, is a term used to describe a group of viral infections that primarily affect the liver. Hepatitis can be caused by viral infections, autoimmune disorders, drugs, alcohol, or other toxins. There are five main hepatitis viruses – hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E – each with its unique mode of transmission, symptoms, and potential for causing chronic liver disease.

Hepatitis A and E are typically spread through contaminated food and water, while hepatitis B, C, and D are transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, or other body fluids. Hepatitis D virus, HDV is unique in that it can only infect individuals who are already infected with the hepatitis B virus, as HDV requires the HBV to replicate. While some forms of hepatitis, like hepatitis A, are acute and self-limiting, others, like hepatitis B and C, can lead to chronic infections that can progress to life-threatening complications, including liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.

The impact of viral hepatitis on global health is staggering. According to the World Health Organization, WHO, an estimated 354 million people worldwide are living with chronic hepatitis B or C infections. These viral infections are responsible for approximately 1.3 million deaths annually, making them a leading cause of premature mortality worldwide.

A liver silently performs over 500 vital functions every single day to keep us alive. That’s why prioritising liver health is so important. The benefits of a healthy liver include living longer. Viral hepatitis still kills over a million people every year. Combined, hepatitis B and hepatitis C cause 1.1 million deaths and 3 million new infections every year. 350 million people are living with a chronic viral hepatitis infection and 3,000 people die from hepatitis every day. That’s one hepatitis death every thirty seconds. Over 8,000 new hepatitis B and C infections occur each day. That’s over 5 infections every minute. If the current trajectory continues, viral hepatitis will kill more people annually than malaria, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS combined by 2040.

Every 30 seconds, someone dies from a viral hepatitis-related illness. However, with the existing prevention, testing and treatment services that are available every hepatitis-related death is preventable. Hepatitis can affect anyone, but it has a disproportionate effect on the people and communities most underserved by health systems.

Hepatitis infection is silent and liver health awareness is low. Most symptoms only appear once the disease is advanced, resulting in a huge volume of undiagnosed people living with hepatitis. Even when hepatitis is diagnosed, the number of people who go on to receive treatment is incredibly low. Most people discover they have hepatitis B or C after many years of silent infection, and only when they develop serious liver disease or cancer. Even after diagnosis, the level of treatment and care for people living with hepatitis is astonishingly poor. Only 10% of people with chronic hepatitis B are diagnosed. Only 22% of those receive treatment – that’s just 2% of the total global health burden. Only 21% of people with hepatitis C are diagnosed. 62% of those diagnosed receive treatment to cure them – just 13% of the total global health burden.

The establishment of World Hepatitis Day can be traced back to 2007 when the World Hepatitis Alliance, a non-profit organisation dedicated to addressing the global hepatitis crisis, launched the first-ever global awareness campaign on hepatitis. The date of 28 July was chosen to commemorate the birthday of Dr. Baruch Blumberg, a Nobel Prize-winning scientist who discovered the hepatitis B virus and developed the first hepatitis B vaccine. In 2010, the World Health Assembly, the decision-making body of the WHO, officially designated 28 July as World Hepatitis Day, recognising the urgent need for a coordinated global response to address the growing burden of viral hepatitis.

Since its inception, World Hepatitis Day has served as a platform for governments, healthcare organisations, patient advocacy groups, and individuals to raise awareness, promote prevention, and advocate for improved access to testing, treatment, and care for those affected by viral hepatitis. To eliminate hepatitis and achieve the WHO’s ambitious targets by 2030, simplified primary care services for viral hepatitis should ensure that all pregnant women living with chronic hepatitis B have access to treatment and their infants have access to hepatitis B birth vaccines to prevent infection. 90% of people living with hepatitis B and/or hepatitis C are diagnosed, and 80% of diagnosed people are cured or treated according to newer expanded eligibility criteria. Hepatitis C can be prevented by adequately screening all donated blood and ensuring safe injection practices in health care settings, at home and especially among people who inject drugs.

Key priorities for the future include strengthening immunisation programmes by ensuring universal access to hepatitis B vaccination, particularly the birth dose, which is crucial for preventing mother-to-child transmission and protecting future generations from chronic hepatitis B infection. Scaling up access to affordable and reliable hepatitis testing and treatment services, particularly in resource-limited settings, is essential for reducing the burden of viral hepatitis and preventing its long-term complications. Combating the stigma and discrimination associated with viral hepatitis is critical to encouraging individuals to seek testing and treatment, and promoting their overall well-being and social inclusion. Implementing evidence-based harm reduction strategies, such as needle and syringe exchange programs, is vital for preventing the transmission of hepatitis B and C among people who inject drugs. Achieving a hepatitis-free future requires a coordinated and collaborative effort involving governments, healthcare providers, civil society organisations, and communities, working together to address the multifaceted challenges posed by viral hepatitis. Continued investment in research and innovation is essential for developing new diagnostic tools, more effective treatments, and ultimately, a cure for viral hepatitis.

As we commemorate World Hepatitis Day each year, let us renew our commitment to addressing this global health crisis and work towards a future where no one suffers from the devastating consequences of viral hepatitis. Through collective action, sustained advocacy, and an unwavering dedication to public health, we can turn the dream of a hepatitis-free future into a reality.

Memories and Such

Memories of a very ordinary life

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