By Dr Laila Rizvi | Chief Executive
In 2008, Pakistan, after Egypt, had the highest prevalence of HCV (5%) in the world, while it stands in the intermediate endemic countries (2-5%) for HBV. However, new HCV prevalence survey undertaken in the province of Punjab (2017) and Sindh (2019) show that the prevalence has risen to 7%. It is estimated that 140 million populations would need screening. Out of these 10 million people will screen positive for HCV. All 10 million will undergo virus testing but virus would be present in only about 70% cases, making 7 million persons eligible for treatment
Given the above situation, Hepatitis C is considered as a national public health emergency in Pakistan. Hepatitis C has no or minimal symptoms, and until an advanced stage, a large majority of patients remain unaware of their status. Furthermore, if left untreated majority will progress to cirrhosis and liver cancer and ultimately result in a painful death
Universally there is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C, therefore massive preventive campaigns along with universal screening, testing and treatment of the disease population is likely to eliminate the disease by 2030.
The Heath Foundation is aligned to the National Elimination Strategy and aims to tackle the 2 key areas i.e.
ü Screen, test and treat all population over 17 years of age for HCV;
ü Develop and implement a comprehensive communication strategy for improving health and social behaviors
Achievement till date:
Details of our work and how THF is impacting the lives of the poor and marginalized can be seen at our website:
www.thehealthfoundation.org
We are making all out efforts for collecting funds for this life saving cause........ SUPPORT US !!!!
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