Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called for combined efforts to build a hepatitis-free Bangladesh through greater public awareness, prevention, early diagnosis and accessible treatment. “The incumbent government has been implementing a series of measures to expand specialised healthcare services, promote technology-based medical facilities, and ensure treatment security for disadvantaged people,” he said in a message issued today on the eve of ‘World Hepatitis Day’, to be observed tomorrow (Tuesday).
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a modern, humane, and affordable healthcare system for all citizens. He emphasized that the administration remains dedicated to delivering public health services at people’s doorsteps under the principle, “Prevention is better than cure.”
He noted that this year’s theme, “Let’s Break It Down,” highlights the necessity of dispelling misconceptions about hepatitis, raising awareness, eliminating fear and social stigma, and ensuring easy access to prevention, testing, and treatment for all.
The Prime Minister stressed the government’s firm commitment to building a healthy, safe, and welfare-oriented Bangladesh through the country’s highest-ever health sector budget, improved liver treatment infrastructure, expanded digital healthcare services, and patient-centred care.
Describing hepatitis as one of the world’s major public health challenges, he pointed out that millions of people suffer from liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and other serious complications caused by hepatitis B and C every year. However, he noted that the disease can largely be prevented and controlled through timely vaccination, screening, safe healthcare practices, and proper treatment.
The government, he said, has been expanding specialised liver care, modern diagnostic facilities, and healthcare infrastructure across the country. Advanced medical equipment is being installed at the National Institute of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases and other specialised hospitals to strengthen the country’s capacity for liver treatment and reduce the need for patients to seek treatment abroad.
The Prime Minister also mentioned that the government has continued providing one-time financial assistance of up to Tk one lakh for patients suffering from liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.
To modernize and make healthcare more patient-centred, the government is implementing initiatives to introduce an e-Health Card and an integrated patient information management system, he added.
Reiterating Bangladesh’s commitment to achieving the World Health Organization’s target of eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030, he underscored the need for the active participation of the government, healthcare institutions, development partners, non-governmental organisations, the media, and people from all walks of life to attain the goal.
The Prime Minister expressed hope that through collective efforts, Bangladesh would become more successful in preventing and controlling viral hepatitis and build a healthy, safe, and hepatitis-free nation. He wished every success to all programmes to be organised on the occasion.