Hepatitis C alarm

WHO’s Global Hepatitis Report 2026 delivers a stark warning for Pakistan. According to the report, our country now leads the world in the number of people living with Hepatitis C, a preventable and curable disease, while also ranking among the top ten nations for Hepatitis C-related deaths. This alarming revelation exposes deep-rooted flaws in our healthcare system and underscores an urgent need for decisive action. Hepatitis B and C continue to claim millions of lives globally each year, primarily through liver cirrhosis and cancer. In 2024 alone, viral hepatitis caused 1.34 million deaths worldwide. Pakistan’s position at the top of the Hepatitis C burden is particularly concerning, as unsafe medical practices such as the use of reusable or fake auto-disable syringes and widespread unqualified practitioners fuel ongoing transmission. Unnecessary injections, poor infection control and weak enforcement of safety standards amplify the threat, creating a public health crisis that is both preventable and treatable. The responsibility to confront this epidemic lies with both the government and the public. Authorities must take immediate, stringent measures to halt unsafe practices. This includes enforcing bans on reusable and counterfeit syringes, regulating injection practices across formal and informal healthcare sectors and further strengthening blood safety protocols. Mass screening campaigns are crucial to identify infected individuals, while affordable and widely accessible treatment can ensure that Hepatitis C, which is curable within 8-12 weeks, does not continue to devastate lives. Additionally, public awareness campaigns must highlight the dangers of unsafe injections and quackery, encouraging people to seek care only from qualified healthcare providers. Equally important is the role of education and community engagement. Communities can support local health initiatives and encourage family members to get screened. By fostering a culture of accountability and