ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has been witnessing a concerning surge in hepatitis cases across the country, with contaminated blood and the reuse of syringes identified as major contributing factors to the spread of this viral disease.
The National Assembly meeting recently brought to light the continuous rise in the number of hepatitis patients in Pakistan. In a written response, the Health Minister shared data from a survey conducted by the Pakistan Medical Research Council in 2008, which indicated that the prevalence of hepatitis B was 2.5%, and the prevalence of hepatitis C was 5% at that time.
Further, recent surveys conducted in 2018-19 revealed even higher prevalence rates in Sindh and Punjab provinces. Punjab conducted its hepatitis survey in 2018, reporting a prevalence of 2.2% for hepatitis B and a concerning 18.19% for hepatitis C. Meanwhile, in Sindh, the prevalence of hepatitis B was 1.05%, and hepatitis C was found to affect 6.2% of the population.
Health officials are emphasizing that hepatitis is primarily spread through unsafe blood transfusions and the reuse of contaminated syringes. Additionally, the improper sterilization of medical, surgical, and dental instruments in healthcare facilities has also been identified as a contributing cause.
The written response also highlighted other practices that increase the risk of hepatitis transmission. Sharing razors and the use of infected tools by barbers have been associated with the spread of the disease. Moreover, activities like tattooing and ear piercing have been shown to raise the risk of contracting hepatitis.
To address this public health concern, health authorities are calling for greater awareness and education about safe medical practices, proper blood screening, and the use of disposable syringes. They are also urging healthcare facilities to adhere to strict sterilization protocols to prevent the transmission of hepatitis.
The rising number of hepatitis cases underscores the need for a coordinated and comprehensive effort from both the government and the public to tackle this health issue and protect the well-being of the Pakistani population.
