Over 21 Crore Screened for Hepatitis Under National Programme, Says Health Ministry
- Health Ministry observed World Hepatitis Day 2026 with screening numbers crossing 21 crore.
- Over 6 lakh patients have been treated under the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme.
- AIIMS experts stressed early screenings can prevent hepatitis deaths.
- Ripon Buildings in Chennai were illuminated green to mark the day.
Mass Screening Milestone
The Union Health Ministry on Wednesday announced that over 21 crore people have been screened for viral hepatitis under the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP). The announcement came as part of World Hepatitis Day 2026 observations.
Health Secretary Apurva Chandra disclosed the figures, stating that more than 6 lakh patients have been treated under the programme so far. The NVHCP, launched in 2018, aims to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.
Focus on Early Detection
Experts from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) highlighted that a significant number of hepatitis-related deaths could be prevented through early screenings. They stressed that timely diagnosis and treatment reduce the risk of liver cirrhosis and cancer.
Hepatitis B and C together account for the majority of viral hepatitis cases in India. The government has been ramping up testing facilities and awareness campaigns, especially in rural and high-burden districts.
Observances Across the Country
As part of the day's events, the historic Ripon Buildings in Chennai were illuminated in green, the official colour of the global hepatitis response. Similar initiatives were reported in several state capitals, with health departments organising free screening camps and public lectures.
The Ministry also released updated guidelines for hepatitis management, focusing on integrating hepatitis care with primary health services. Officials said the goal is to ensure that every person diagnosed receives treatment without financial hardship.
Challenges Remain
Despite the progress, health workers acknowledge gaps. Many people with chronic hepatitis remain unaware of their infection. Stigma and lack of access to diagnostics in remote areas continue to hinder efforts.
Officials have not yet confirmed the exact number of deaths prevented by the programme but emphasised that the screening numbers are a step toward India's 2030 elimination target.
What to watch: The government is expected to release a detailed state-wise break-up of screening and treatment data in the coming weeks, which will help identify regions that need intensified intervention.