Pakistan leads the world in Hepatitis C cases, with over 600,000 unlicensed doctors contributing to the crisis. An estimated 13.8-15 million Pakistanis are infected with either Hepatitis B or C, but only 25-30% are aware of their condition. The reuse of syringes and unsafe medical practices are widespread, leading to alarming infection rates.
The unchecked medical culture in Pakistan prioritizes profits over patient safety, exposing millions to deadly infections. Hepatitis C directly impacts the liver, often remaining undetected until severe damage occurs. Access to basic outpatient care is limited in Pakistan, making regular medical checkups a challenge for many.
Despite launching an HCV elimination program by 2050 in 2025, Pakistan has a history of identifying issues but failing to address them effectively. Recent investigations have uncovered serious malpractice in hospitals, with children being put at risk due to poor infection control measures. The government crackdowns have not been sufficient to prevent such incidents from recurring.
