World Hepatitis Day is being observed today across the globe, including in Pakistan. On this occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that 16.5 million people will be screened for hepatitis by the year 2030. Those who test positive will receive free treatment from the government.
Both President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued special messages to mark the day.
President’s Message:
President Asif Ali Zardari stated that hepatitis is a serious public health issue in Pakistan and stressed the need to raise awareness about the disease. In his message, he highlighted that millions of people fall victim to the illness due to a lack of timely diagnosis, calling hepatitis a “silent killer.”
He further said that the disease often becomes apparent only when liver damage has already occurred. A well-organized national strategy is essential to combat hepatitis. He emphasized the need to ensure timely screening and treatment, strict adherence to medical protocols, and placing public awareness at the heart of efforts to overcome this health challenge.
Prime Minister’s Message:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that hepatitis has become a global health challenge, and Pakistan is among the countries with a high prevalence of the disease. Many infected individuals remain undiagnosed and untreated.
He added that the government has launched a national program to eliminate hepatitis. Under this initiative, 16.5 million people will be screened by 2030, and those who test positive will receive free treatment. Awareness, timely diagnosis, and proper treatment are the only ways to control the spread of this disease.
