Pakistan launches Hepatitis C elimination pilot program in Gilgit-Baltistan

ISLAMABAD: The government of Pakistan has launched a Hepatitis C control pilot program in two districts of Gilgit-Baltistan under the Prime Minister’s National Program for the Elimination of Hepatitis C. This initiative, in collaboration with the Aga Khan Development Network, aims to provide free screening and treatment facilities to the public.

According to the Ministry of Health, the pilot program is being implemented in MC Chalas, Diamer, and UC Markunja, Shagar. Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Health, Dr. Mukhtar Bharath, stated that insights gained from this pilot will guide the nationwide rollout in Islamabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and all provinces later this year.

Pakistan currently has the highest global prevalence of Hepatitis C, with millions unaware of their infection status. The Rs 68 billion initiative, supported by federal and provincial governments, focuses on early detection, public awareness, and accessible treatment to curb the rising cases. Dr. Bharath emphasized that Hepatitis C is curable within three months, making timely screening crucial to prevent liver failure and cancer.

The success of this initiative relies on public awareness, community participation, and media support. The government is committed to providing resources and equipment to healthcare providers to ensure effective disease control.