WHO calls for heightened efforts to fight hepatitis in Eastern Mediterranean Region

EGYPT: The WHO’s "It’s Time for Action" campaign for World Hepatitis Day 2024 urges governments and communities in the Eastern Mediterranean Region and globally to intensify efforts against hepatitis, emphasizing urgent action.

Efforts to combat hepatitis in the Eastern Mediterranean Region face challenges and promising opportunities. In 2022, approximately 15 million people in the region were living with chronic hepatitis B, while around 12 million had chronic hepatitis C. These infections resulted in 97,000 deaths that year.

Despite the scale of the problem, only 14pc of those with hepatitis B are aware of their condition, and a mere 2pc of the estimated cases are receiving treatment. The situation is slightly better for hepatitis C, with 48pc of cases diagnosed and 35pc undergoing treatment.

The regional coverage for the hepatitis B birth dose stands at a concerning 34pc, significantly below the global target of 90pc. This shortfall poses a serious risk to newborns. Additionally, deficiencies in blood and injection safety in some countries contribute to ongoing infections.

However, there are notable successes. Egypt has made substantial strides with a nationwide hepatitis C campaign, screening 60 million people between 2016 and 2020. Of those, 4.1 million who tested positive received treatment, propelling Egypt to become the first country globally to achieve "gold tier" status in the WHO’s elimination criteria for hepatitis C. Pakistan is now launching a similar campaign with the goal of mirroring Egypt’s success.

Dr. Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, emphasized the need for continued inspiration from Egypt’s achievements. "We must draw inspiration from Egypt’s success and other regional accomplishments," she stated. "I urge governments and policymakers to ensure access to testing and treatment, and to implement robust safety and preventive measures."

Several promising developments are on the horizon, including a landmark agreement to lower hepatitis medication prices for low- and middle-income countries. Additionally, advancements in molecular diagnostics, accelerated by lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, offer new opportunities.

The recent adoption of the Regional Action Plan for implementing the global health sector strategies on HIV, viral hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections (2022–2030) provides a strategic framework focusing on testing, treatment, vaccination, and safety measures.

Ensuring access to essential medicines remains a priority, with upcoming regional flagship initiatives set to launch in 2024. Dr. Balkhy highlighted the importance of these initiatives, stating, “Our new regional flagship initiative on equitable access will help ensure that all countries can improve the treatment of viral hepatitis.”

The prospect of reduced medication prices and enhanced diagnostic capabilities brings hope for the future. Vaccination continues to be a critical element in preventing new infections and fostering a healthier future for the region.

“We reaffirm our commitment to supporting all countries in seizing these opportunities,” concluded Dr. Balkhy, calling for collective action. “I urge all Member States, partners, and donors in the Eastern Mediterranean Region to act urgently to eliminate viral hepatitis.”