India is systematically strengthening its efforts to combat hepatitis, with the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme aiming to eliminate the disease as a public health threat by 2030. The programme has adopted a health systems approach and has been integrated with various national health initiatives to prevent infections and provide free diagnostics and treatment to affected people.
What is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by hepatitis viruses, other infections, toxic substances such as alcohol and drugs, or autoimmune diseases. The five main hepatitis viruses are A, B, C, D and E, with Hepatitis B and C being the most common causes of chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis and liver cancer.
About National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme
Launched in 2018 to provide hepatitis screening and treatment services in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Focuses on preventive, promotive and curative interventions through:
- Creating awareness.
- Improving healthcare access.
- Ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment.
- Provides free diagnostics and medicines for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.
- Integrated with various national health programmes to strengthen hepatitis prevention and control.
- Utilisation of local funding.
- Affordable generic medicines.
- Existing healthcare delivery platforms.
- Services are being decentralised from district hospitals to local health centres to bring testing and treatment closer to communities.
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