Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a nationwide campaign against hepatitis on the occasion of World Hepatitis Day, as governments and health organizations raise awareness about the disease and its implications on millions around the globe.
Every July 28 the World Health Organization (WHO) and partners mark World Hepatitis Day to increase awareness and understanding of viral hepatitis and the diseases it causes. Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that is caused by a variety of infectious viruses and noninfectious agents leading to a range of health problems, some of which can be fatal.
In a statement issued by his office, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lamented that Pakistan has a very high burden of hepatitis C infection, pointing out that the country currently has 10 million infected cases out of 60 million hepatitis C cases globally. He said it is feared Pakistan would see an epidemic of liver cancer, if necessary, actions to prevent and eliminate viral hepatitis are not taken.
The government stands firm in its dedication to overcome the challenges posed by hepatitis. He announced a nationwide campaign aimed at eradicating hepatitis C. he said as part of this campaign, his government would focus on decentralizing testing and treatment centers, ensuring that services provided are tailored to the needs of Pakistani citizens in alignment with the Global Strategy. He reassure every citizen of our great nation, Pakistan, will have free access to screening and treatment facilities for hepatitis C. The government’s core objective remains to uplift the health and well-being of people suffering from hepatitis while simultaneously reducing the impact it has on work productivity, preventing liver cancer, and averting premature death.
On this World Hepatitis Day, let us stand united in our efforts to raise awareness, support those affected by viral hepatitis, and work toward a future free from the burden of this disease. Together, we can make a difference and build a healthier and more prosperous nation.
According to World Health Organisation (WHO), five main strains of Hepatitis virus i.e. types A, B, C, D and E, while they all cause liver disease, they differ in important ways including modes of transmission, severity of the illness, geographical distribution and prevention methods.
The theme of this year World Hepatitis Day is “It’s time for action”.
