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Masterclasses

MC7.3 Advances in Infection 09:00 Theatre 1

Tuesday, 19 May Elimination of Viral Hepatitis: National Coordinated Response
Mohamed RB
University Malaya Medical Centre, Malaysia

Viral hepatitis is responsible for approximately 1.4 million deaths annually around the world. The Asian Pacific region bears
the major burden of deaths related to viral hepatitis, mainly due to hepatitis B and hepatitis C, which affect about 340 million
people across the region. Despite the heavy burden, the level of awareness and political response are insufficient to tackle
this public health issue.

The first resolution on viral hepatitis at the 63rd Session of the World Health Assembly in May 2010 (Resolution WHA63.18)
recognised that viral hepatitis was a significant global health problem. It called upon governments to develop strategies and
actions to reduce the burden of viral hepatitis.

“My Commitment to Cure” Coalition, a part of a global Strategic Health Initiative, was established to drive a comprehensive
national plan to enhance care and cure of patients living with viral hepatitis, especially hepatitis C. The group consisting of
hepatologists and gastroenterologists is committed to working in partnership, and to engage relevant stakeholders for a
meaningful impact on viral hepatitis. The priority actions identified include strengthening data collection, enhancing hepatitis
C detection, providing better linkage to care, optimising treatment, and forming partnership. As the pillars of the strategic
framework, they are aligned with the four Axes of the WHO Global Hepatitis Framework. Sourcing data on the disease burden
of hepatitis C in the country is crucial to convince policy makers on the need for a coordinated national response to HCV
and raise public awareness on the urgency for action in HCV control. However, a coordinated approach will be needed on all
elements outlined in the WHO Global Hepatitis Framework to combat the viral hepatitis.

HOSPITAL AUTHORITY CONVENTION 2015

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