For many decades, viral hepatitis has been an important public health threat. Hepatitis viruses infect millions of people worldwide. Chronic infections with hepatitis B virus (HBV), HCV, or HDV are associated with cirrhosis and liver cancer, and are among the best-known infectious causes of cancer in humans. Viral hepatitis-associated liver cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, but there have been many important scientific discoveries and medical advances. We have therefore dedicated a special Issue of Gastroenterology to viral hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma.