• According to WHO, nearly 12 million people in Pakistan are suffering from hepatitis B or C
• Infections are especially high in rural areas due to poor medical practices, says PM Shehbaz Sharif
ISLAMABAD: On World Hepatitis Day, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the urgent need to raise awareness about hepatitis — not only to break the stigma around the disease but also to prevent new infections and ensure timely treatment.
Every year on July 28, World Hepatitis Day is observed globally to spotlight the need for national and international action against the disease. It encourages individuals, organizations, and governments to get involved and take action.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 12 million people in Pakistan currently live with hepatitis B or C. About 150,000 new cases emerge every year. Major risk factors include unsafe injections, reuse of syringes, surgeries with non-sterilized equipment, blood transfusions, hospitalizations, and shared razors at barber shops.
“Raising awareness about hepatitis is essential not only to break the stigma surrounding this disease but also to prevent new infections and ensure timely treatment for those affected,” the Prime Minister’s Office quoted Sharif as saying.
He pointed out that the risk of hepatitis infections is especially high in rural and underserved areas due to poor infection control practices.
The prime minister said the government is actively working to fight the disease. A national program has already been launched to eliminate hepatitis C.
“Our goal is to screen over 165 million people and provide free treatment to all positive cases by 2030,” he said.
“This is a national movement — a shared commitment to saving lives and protecting our future.”
Sharif urged people to get tested for hepatitis, seek medical advice, and not delay treatment out of fear or shame. He praised Pakistan’s healthcare professionals, researchers, and frontline workers who are working tirelessly to tackle the crisis.
“Today, we renew our shared responsibility to build a healthy, safe, and hepatitis-free Pakistan,” he added.
In a separate statement, President Asif Ali Zardari noted that viral hepatitis remains a major public health issue in Pakistan. He said millions suffer silently due to late diagnosis, lack of awareness, and limited healthcare access.
According to state broadcaster Radio Pakistan, Zardari said:
“We must implement comprehensive strategies that combine mass awareness campaigns, effective vaccination drives, timely screening, and access to treatment.”
