In a bold move to combat one of the country’s most pressing public health threats, the Government of Pakistan has launched the Prime Minister’s National Program for the Elimination of Hepatitis C, aiming to screen 165 million people by 2030 and provide free treatment to all positive cases.
The Silent Epidemic
Pakistan bears one of the highest global burdens of hepatitis C, with over 10 million cases currently and projections of 11 million by 2035 if left unchecked. Hepatitis is often dubbed a “silent killer”, progressing unnoticed until irreversible liver damage occurs.
Key Features of the Initiative
- Nationwide screening for individuals aged 12 and above
- Free treatment using affordable generic Direct-Acting Antivirals (DAAs)
- PKR 67.77 billion allocated over three years, jointly funded by federal and provincial governments
- Establishment of a National Technical Advisory Group (TAG) for strategic oversight
- Integration with electronic health reporting systems and PCR testing infrastructure
Prevention and Awareness
The initiative emphasizes:
- Mass awareness campaigns to destigmatize hepatitis
- Vaccination drives and infection control protocols
- Training for healthcare workers and regulation of blood transfusion practices
Global Collaboration
Pakistan has joined the UN Group of Friends to Eliminate Hepatitis, signaling its commitment to global health goals. Officials have called for international support to scale up efforts and achieve 100% coverage before 20303.
Leadership Speaks
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared the program a “national movement”, urging all sectors of society to unite in the fight against hepatitis2. President Asif Ali Zardari echoed the call for collective action, highlighting the disease’s economic and social toll.
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