1 in 25 Pakistanis Affected by Hepatitis C, with Alarming Rates in Rawalpindi
In Pakistan, one out of every 25 citizens is suffering from Hepatitis C, with 4.05% of the population affected by the disease. Among those affected, 3.33% are young individuals, 4.42% are adults, and 1.48% are children. The prevalence rate is alarmingly high among drug addicts, with 43.42% affected.
According to the report of the Localized Hepatitis Elimination and Prevention Program, a screening campaign was conducted in seven union councils of Rawalpindi. A total of 10,347 households were screened, and 47,728 individuals were tested. The results revealed that over 2,048 men and women were diagnosed with Hepatitis C and B, and 22 individuals were found to be simultaneously infected with both types.
Dr. Ansar Ishaq, CEO of the program, confirmed that the screening also identified 8 pregnant women with Hepatitis. All affected individuals underwent PCR tests for further diagnosis.
The report further highlights that 46.92% of individuals suffering from various diseases in Rawalpindi are also affected by Hepatitis, demonstrating the growing concern of the disease in the region.
