Pakistan has a significant public health challenge: the highest Hepatitis C infections in the world. A recent World Health Organization (WHO) report sheds light on this alarming situation.
The report states that Pakistan has a staggering 8.8 million Hepatitis C infections, the highest number globally. This translates to a major public health concern, with nearly one in ten Pakistanis infected.
Unsafe medical practices are a significant contributor to these Hepatitis infections. The WHO report highlights that a concerning 44% of new Hepatitis C cases in Pakistan stem from unsafe medical injections.
This is a critical area for improvement in Pakistan’s healthcare system.
The WHO report also presents a broader picture of viral hepatitis. Globally, the estimated number of deaths from viral hepatitis has risen from 1.1 million in 2019 to 1.3 million in 2022. Hepatitis B accounts for the majority of these deaths (83%), with Hepatitis C causing the remaining 17%.
While Pakistan has the highest Hepatitis C infections, it’s important to note the overall burden of viral hepatitis. When combining Hepatitis B and C cases, Pakistan ranks fifth globally, following China, India, Indonesia, and Nigeria.
There is a glimmer of hope, however. Egypt has achieved a significant milestone, becoming the first country to reach gold-tier status in the fight against Hepatitis C elimination. This demonstrates the potential for progress in tackling this disease.
The WHO report serves as a call to action for Pakistan. With continued efforts towards raising awareness, implementing safe healthcare practices, and improving access to treatment, Pakistan can begin to address its challenge of having the highest Hepatitis C infections globally.
