Islamabad has completed hepatitis C screening tests for 150,000 residents under the Prime Minister’s Hepatitis Control Programme, as the federal government expands efforts to detect and treat the disease across Pakistan.
According to health officials, hepatitis C has been detected in approximately 2 to 2.5 per cent of the general population screened in Islamabad. The prevalence has reached 6 per cent in areas with limited access to healthcare facilities.
Screening Continues At Government Hospitals
Screening is being conducted at several public healthcare facilities, including the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) and Polyclinic Hospital.
People who test positive during initial screening are undergoing PCR tests to confirm the infection. Patients with confirmed hepatitis C are being provided free medicines under the government programme.
Federal Government Expands Screening Programme
The federal government has decided to extend hepatitis C screening to more parts of the country.
According to officials, diagnostic kits and medicines have started reaching Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Sindh is scheduled to receive supplies in the next phase, followed by Balochistan and Punjab.
Pakistan Targets Hepatitis C Elimination By 2030
The Prime Minister’s Hepatitis Control Programme aims to eliminate hepatitis C from Pakistan by 2030.
The nationwide screening and treatment initiative is intended to identify infected individuals, confirm diagnoses through PCR testing and provide access to treatment.