Breaking Down Barriers: Eliminating Hepatitis by 2030

On World Hepatitis Day, WHO South-East Asia's Dr. Catharina Boehme highlighted the urgent need to expand hepatitis testing and treatment. Current services must integrate into essential health packages to prevent liver cancer and ensure access for the 61 million affected by hepatitis B and 9 million by hepatitis C in the region.

Boehme stressed the importance of addressing barriers like stigma and high costs, which hinder prevention and care. The 'Hepatitis: Let's Break It Down' theme for this year underlines the necessity of dismantling these obstacles, advancing maternal and child health, and increasing public awareness.

Efforts are underway across the region with innovative service models and social health insurance coverage. Countries are urged to invest politically and financially, simplifying guidelines and embedding hepatitis services within primary care. The goal is clear: eliminate hepatitis by 2030 by breaking existing complexities and fulfilling commitments.

(With inputs from agencies.)