Pakistan continues to face a major public health challenge as it ranks fifth in the world for the overall burden of viral hepatitis, according to the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA). The figures were shared as the country joined the global community in observing World Hepatitis Day on Tuesday, highlighting the urgent need for greater awareness, prevention, and early treatment.
Speaking on the occasion, PMA Secretary General Dr. Abdul Ghafoor Shoro said Pakistan is home to approximately 10 million people living with chronic Hepatitis C and 3.8 million affected by Hepatitis B. Together, these infections impact an estimated 13.8 million Pakistanis, making viral hepatitis one of the country’s most pressing healthcare concerns.
According to the PMA, the national prevalence of Hepatitis C ranges between 4.8 percent and 7.5 percent, while Hepatitis B affects approximately 1.1 percent to 1.7 percent of the population. These figures underline the widespread nature of the disease and the need for stronger public health interventions.
World Hepatitis Day is observed each year to increase awareness about viral hepatitis, encourage early diagnosis, and promote access to effective treatment. The annual campaign also emphasizes preventive measures such as vaccination, safe medical practices, proper blood screening, and improved infection control.
Health experts warn that hepatitis often progresses silently, with many patients showing no symptoms until the disease reaches an advanced stage. This makes regular screening particularly important for individuals at higher risk, allowing timely diagnosis and treatment before serious liver damage occurs.
Medical professionals stress that early detection can significantly improve health outcomes. Modern antiviral treatments have made Hepatitis C highly treatable, while vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent Hepatitis B infection. Expanding access to testing and treatment is considered essential for reducing the country’s hepatitis burden.
The Pakistan Medical Association has also called for greater public awareness campaigns to educate people about the causes, symptoms, and prevention of viral hepatitis. Experts encourage citizens to avoid the reuse of syringes, ensure blood transfusions are properly screened, seek treatment from qualified healthcare providers, and maintain safe hygiene practices to reduce the risk of transmission.
Pakistan has made progress in strengthening healthcare services, but experts believe sustained investment in disease surveillance, vaccination programs, and affordable treatment will be necessary to meet global hepatitis elimination goals. Collaboration between government institutions, healthcare providers, and public health organizations will play a crucial role in tackling the disease.
World Hepatitis Day serves as a reminder that millions of Pakistanis continue to live with chronic hepatitis, many of whom remain undiagnosed. Increasing awareness, improving access to healthcare, and encouraging early testing can help reduce complications and improve quality of life for those affected.
As Pakistan continues its efforts to combat viral hepatitis, health authorities urge the public to prioritize regular medical checkups, vaccination where applicable, and timely consultation with healthcare professionals. Strengthening prevention and treatment initiatives will be key to reducing the country’s disease burden and protecting future generations.
Topics #city magazine #health #Healthcare #Hepatitis #Hepatitis B #Hepatitis C #Medical News #News #Pakistan #Pakistan Medical Association #public health #Trending Pakistan #World Hepatitis Day
