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Seher Qaiser1

  • 1The Health Foundation, S.I.T.E, Karachi.

JPMA. the Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association
|July 5, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Hepatitis B and C infections affect millions globally, with Pakistan facing high rates due to unsafe injection practices. Addressing syringe reuse and overuse is crucial for public health.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Chronic hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) infections impact 350 million and 170 million people worldwide, respectively.
  • Hepatitis B and C cause an estimated 563,000 and 366,000 deaths annually, with Pakistan being a heavily affected nation due to high infection rates.
  • Unsafe injection practices, including syringe reuse and the circulation of repacked unsterilized syringes, significantly contribute to HCV prevalence in Pakistan.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the significant burden of chronic HBV and HCV infections globally and in Pakistan.
  • To identify unsafe injection practices, such as syringe reuse and the sale of unsterilized syringes, as key drivers of HCV transmission.
  • To underscore the high rate of unnecessary injections in Pakistan and the need for behavioral change in healthcare practices.

Main Methods:

  • This study synthesizes global and national data on hepatitis infection prevalence and mortality.
  • It analyzes factors contributing to high HCV rates in Pakistan, focusing on injection practices.
  • The abstract references WHO recommendations for improving injection safety and waste disposal.

Main Results:

  • Pakistan faces a substantial burden of chronic HBV and HCV infections.
  • The reuse and repackaging of unsterilized syringes are prevalent, making it difficult for the public to distinguish them from safe ones.
  • Pakistan has the highest rate of injections per person among developing countries, with over 94% being unnecessary.

Conclusions:

  • Urgent implementation of strategies to curb the overuse of injections is necessary.
  • Promoting the use of sterile syringes and needles and ensuring proper disposal of medical waste are critical.
  • Behavioral changes among healthcare workers and patients are essential to reduce hepatitis transmission in Pakistan.

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