PM Shehbaz launches nationwide campaign against Hepatitis C

• PM Shehbaz launched nationwide campaign to eliminate Hepatitis C.
• Government committed to prevention, early diagnosis, and affordable treatment.
• PM highlighted progress made in fighting hepatitis through awareness campaigns.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif launched a nationwide campaign to eliminate Hepatitis C, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to raise awareness and aim for a hepatitis-free future on World Hepatitis Day.

“I am pleased to announce a nationwide campaign aimed at eradicating Hepatitis C. As a part of this noble endeavour, our focus will be on decentralising testing and treatment centres, ensuring that the services provided are tailored to the needs of our citizens, in alignment with the global strategy,” PM Shehbaz said.

He guaranteed free screening and treatment for Hepatitis C for all citizens.

World Hepatitis Day is being observed globally today with the theme ‘It’s Time for Action’, highlighting the need for immediate measures to combat hepatitis worldwide. The World Health Organization reports that every 30 seconds, someone dies from a hepatitis-related illness.

On this day, the prime minister urged everyone to unite in raising awareness, supporting those affected by hepatitis, and working towards eradicating the disease. “Together, we can make a difference and build a healthier and more prosperous nation,” he said.

He mentioned that the day is dedicated to raising awareness about hepatitis and its impact on individuals and communities globally. This year’s theme underscores the urgency to prevent, diagnose, and treat hepatitis to ensure a healthier future for everyone.

Hepatitis is a silent epidemic that causes liver inflammation and can lead to severe complications if untreated. Shehbaz noted that Pakistan has 10 million cases of Hepatitis C out of the global 60 million. He warned of a potential liver cancer epidemic if action is not taken to prevent and eliminate viral hepatitis.

The prime minister acknowledged the progress made in fighting hepatitis through awareness campaigns, vaccination programs, and better access to testing and treatment. However, he stressed that more needs to be done, including prioritizing prevention, early diagnosis, and providing affordable treatment.

PM Shehbaz emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing hepatitis challenges. He recalled his tenure as Punjab chief minister, highlighting the establishment of the Pakistan Kidney & Liver Transplant Institute and modern Hepatitis Filter Clinics in all 36 districts of Punjab.

“We have done it before and we will do it again. The core objective remains to uplift the health and well-being of those afflicted with HCV, while simultaneously reducing the detrimental impact it has on work productivity, preventing liver cancer, and averting premature death,” he added.

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