Environmental and socioeconomic factors influencing hepatotropic virus transmission

<ns3:p>Background: Viral hepatitis remains a major public health concern worldwide. In 2022 alone, it accounted for approximately 1.3 million deaths, with hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C viruses (HCV) responsible for the majority. However, hepatitis A (HAV) and hepatitis E (HEV) viruses continue to cause significant outbreaks, especially in settings with poor sanitation, while hepatitis D virus contributes to more severe outcomes in individuals with HBV. The burden of these infections is disproportionately high in low- and middle-income countries, where socioeconomic disparities, environmental conditions, and healthcare limitations hinder prevention and control efforts. Aims of the study: This review aims to analyze environmental and socioeconomic factors influencing the global prevalence and transmission dynamics of these infections.Material and methods: A comprehensive English-language literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and the World Health Organization databases, focusing on articles published between January 1, 2012, and May 28, 2025. From an initial pool of 437 articles, 44 articles and 8 reports were included for detailed analysis.Results: Environmental determinants such as inadequate sanitation, poor water quality, and overcrowding significantly contribute to HAV and HEV outbreaks, particularly in low-income countries. Socioeconomic factors, including poverty, limited healthcare access, and education gaps, exacerbate HBV and HCV spread via unsafe medical practices and needle sharing. Displacement and migration amplify the vulnerability of at-risk populations, especially in regions with endemic viral hepatitis. Innovative technologies, including direct-acting antivirals for HCV and vaccines like Hecolin for HEV, have shown promise but face challenges in accessibility and affordability.Conclusions: This study underscores the critical connection of environmental and socioeconomic factors in shaping the burden of hepatotropic viruses globally. Targeted public health interventions, improved healthcare access, and policy frameworks are essential to reduce transmission and achieve WHO's 2030 elimination targets for HBV and HCV.</ns3:p>