The Pakistani government has initiated a new program in Gilgit-Baltistan to tackle the growing Hepatitis C crisis, as part of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Hepatitis C Elimination Program. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed Barth, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, made the announcement, emphasizing the importance of curbing the spread of the disease, which now places Pakistan as the country with the highest prevalence of Hepatitis C globally.
The pilot project has been launched in two districts of Gilgit-Baltistan: MC Chilas in Diamer and UC Mirkhunja in Shigar. This initiative, in collaboration with the Aga Khan Development Network, aims to provide free screening and treatment to the local population, offering a critical first step in addressing the issue.
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According to Dr. Barth, the outcomes of this pilot program will be carefully evaluated, with plans to expand the initiative to all districts of Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir later this year. A nationwide rollout will follow, bringing Hepatitis C elimination efforts to all provinces.
The Hepatitis C Elimination Program is a comprehensive Rs68 billion project, launched in partnership with all four provinces. Dr. Barth highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that Hepatitis C is now a major public health concern in Pakistan, with the disease treatable through a three-month course of medication if detected early. Timely screening is essential to prevent severe health complications like liver failure and cancer.
The government’s strategy focuses on early detection and treatment, which are vital in preventing the disease from becoming fatal. The initiative marks a significant step in Pakistan’s fight against this public health challenge.
