“Every 12th Pakistani is suffering from hepatitis B and C, while 500 million people around the world are suffering from the deadly viruses,” says Alkhidmat Blood Bank director. PHOTOS: EXPRESS/FILE
To observe the World Hepatitis Day, the alKhidmat Welfare Society will set up free screening camps for hepatitis B and C patients at all hospitals, medical centres, collection points and clinics of the trust across the city.
AlKhidmat Blood Bank director Dr Mehrajul Huda Siddiqui speaking at a press conference at the press club on Saturday said that the health conditions of the people in the city were deteriorating as thousands of people were dying because of hepatitis B and C.
“Every 12th Pakistani is suffering from hepatitis B and C, while 500 million people around the world are suffering from the deadly viruses,” said Siddiqui.
He said that since 1999 the trust has been disseminating information and creating awareness regarding hepatitis. “We also give vaccines for hepatitis free of cost every year, and, this year, diagnostic camps will be set up at all medical centres and clinics where everyone is welcome for free screening.”
According to Siddiqui, developing countries are affected by hepatitis because of the unavailability of clean drinking water, basic health facilities, illiteracy, quack doctors, and substandard blood banks. “The only way to keep safe from this disease is to create awareness in the society. The government, private sector and NGOs together can play a vital role.”
Published in The Express Tribune, July 28th, 2013.
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