PMA warns of rising hepatitis, liver disease on World Liver Day

ISLAMABAD: Marking World Liver Day under the theme ‘Solid Habits, Strong Liver’, the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) on Sunday raised alarm over the growing burden of liver-related diseases in the country, warning that millions remain undiagnosed despite rising infection rates.

The association said liver disease often progresses silently, with symptoms appearing only after significant damage has already occurred, making early detection and prevention critical.

Abdul Ghafoor Shoro said recent data highlighted the scale of the crisis, noting that Pakistan carries one of the highest global burdens of viral hepatitis.

“Over 13.8 to 15 million people in Pakistan are estimated to be living with Hepatitis B or C,” he said, adding that the country has the heaviest burden of Hepatitis C globally, with approximately 9.8 to 10 million cases.

He said provincial surveys showed viraemic prevalence ranging between 7.7 per cent and 9 per cent in some regions, while around 3.8 to 4 million people were living with chronic Hepatitis B.

Dr Shoro added that nearly 37,000 deaths occur annually due to complications arising from these infections, including liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Despite the scale of infections, he said only 25 to 30 per cent of affected individuals are aware of their condition, pointing to a major gap in screening and diagnosis.

He described the liver as the body’s primary filtration organ, responsible for more than 500 essential functions, but often overlooked in public health priorities.

Highlighting the theme of this year’s observance, he said small but consistent lifestyle changes could significantly reduce the risk of liver disease.

The PMA recommended reducing the intake of ultra-processed foods, high-fructose sugars and oily diets, while promoting regular physical activity to counter sedentary lifestyles and reduce liver fat accumulation.

It also stressed the importance of safe medical practices, including the use of screened blood for transfusions, sterilised equipment and avoiding self-medication, particularly over-the-counter drugs that can cause liver damage.

Dr Shoro emphasised that routine medical check-ups and vaccination against hepatitis remain among the most effective ways to prevent chronic liver disease.

The association called on the government to strengthen primary healthcare systems, expand diagnostic facilities and ensure access to essential treatment across all provinces.

It also urged its regional branches to organise awareness campaigns and screening camps nationwide to improve public understanding of liver health and encourage early detection.