PM Shehbaz Warns of Hepatitis C Epidemic in Pakistan

News Desk 

Islamabad: On “World Hepatitis Day”, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s critical challenge with Hepatitis C, noting that the country is home to 10 million of the 60 million global cases. 

He emphasized the urgent need for action to combat this epidemic and prevent a potential rise in liver cancer cases.

In his message to the nation, Prime Minister Sharif called for collective efforts to increase awareness and work towards eradicating Hepatitis C. He announced a nationwide campaign aimed at eliminating the disease, underscoring the theme of this year’s observance: “Hepatitis Can’t Wait.”

“Hepatitis is a silent epidemic affecting millions worldwide, leading to severe complications if left untreated,” said the Prime Minister. 

He acknowledged the progress made through awareness campaigns, vaccination programs, and enhanced access to testing and treatment, but stressed that more work is needed.

The Prime Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to overcoming the challenges posed by Hepatitis C. “Our new nationwide campaign will focus on decentralizing testing and treatment centers to better serve our citizens. This initiative aligns with global strategies to eliminate the disease and ensure a healthier future for all,” he declared.

The Prime Minister assured that every citizen would have free access to screening and treatment facilities for Hepatitis C.

He recalled that during his tenure as Chief Minister of Punjab, he established the Pakistan Kidney & Liver Transplant Institute, a significant advancement in providing state-of-the-art medical care for kidney and liver patients. Additionally, modern Hepatitis Filter Clinics were set up across all 36 districts of Punjab.

“We have achieved this before, and we will do it again,” he affirmed. “Our core objective is to enhance the health and well-being of those affected by Hepatitis C, while also improving work productivity, preventing liver cancer, and avoiding premature deaths.”