Pakistan has highest number of hepatitis C cases in world: Pak PM's aide
Pakistan's Battle Against Hepatitis C
Introduction
Malik Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, the Coordinator to the Pakistan Prime Minister on Health, has highlighted a critical health issue in Pakistan. The country has the highest number of hepatitis C patients globally, with 10 million cases out of the world's 60 million.
Urgent Need for Action
During a seminar organized by the Health Foundation, Bharath emphasized the urgent need for collective action to combat this public health challenge. He warned that without intervention, Pakistan could face over 11 million hepatitis C cases by 2035, leading to severe health consequences including liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and numerous deaths.
Economic Impact
The economic impact of hepatitis C is significant, with potential losses exceeding USD 285 million annually. As of 2021, only 16% of cases in Pakistan had received treatment, with access to testing and treatment being major hurdles.
Government Initiatives
The federal and provincial governments have launched the Prime Minister's Programme for the Elimination of Hepatitis C, allocating PKR 67.77 billion over three years. This initiative includes creating a National Technical Advisory Group, strategic frameworks, and ensuring the availability of affordable treatments.
Call for International Support
Bharath called for international collaboration to strengthen healthcare systems, train workers, and expand logistics. The goal is to screen, test, and treat 50% of the eligible population within three years, aiming for 100% coverage to meet global elimination targets by 2030.
Doubts Revealed
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a disease caused by a virus that affects the liver. It can lead to serious health problems if not treated. It spreads through contact with infected blood.
Malik Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath
Malik Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath is a person who works with the Prime Minister of Pakistan on health issues. He helps make decisions about health programs in the country.
Coordinator to the Pakistan Prime Minister on Health
This is a person who helps the Prime Minister of Pakistan with health-related matters. They coordinate health programs and policies for the country.
Global elimination targets by 2030
These are goals set by countries around the world to get rid of certain diseases, like hepatitis C, by the year 2030. It means they want to stop the disease from spreading and help people get better.
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