BY: Maryam Sajid /ANI
ISLAMABAD–Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has said that hepatitis can become life-threatening if it is not diagnosed and treated in time, stressing that prevention, early diagnosis, quality treatment and public awareness remain among the government’s top public health priorities.
In his message on the occasion of World Hepatitis Day, observed annually on July 28, the Speaker said the day aims to raise awareness about hepatitis and highlight the importance of early detection and timely treatment. He said the disease can be effectively controlled through preventive measures, safe medical practices, expanded screening programmes and improved access to treatment.
Sardar Ayaz Sadiq appreciated Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif for launching the Prime Minister’s National Programme for the Elimination of Hepatitis C, describing it as a timely initiative aimed at making Pakistan free of Hepatitis C by 2030. He also lauded government efforts, including Hepatitis B vaccination for newborns, nationwide awareness campaigns and the role of educational institutions, media, Basic Health Units (BHUs) and Rural Health Centres (RHCs) in promoting public awareness and immunisation.
The Speaker reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare system, promoting preventive healthcare and enacting effective legislation to ensure quality health services. He called on the federal and provincial governments, healthcare professionals, civil society, media and educational institutions to work together for the elimination of hepatitis.
Deputy Speaker National Assembly Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah said that public awareness, early diagnosis and equal access to treatment are essential to preventing hepatitis. He urged people to adopt preventive measures, undergo regular medical check-ups and follow safe medical practices, expressing confidence that Pakistan can achieve its goal of becoming hepatitis-free through collective national efforts.
