Daily Current Affairs : 17-October-2023
In recent news, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a groundbreaking achievement in the fight against hepatitis C, acknowledging Egypt’s unprecedented progress in eliminating the disease. This milestone not only signifies Egypt’s dedication to public health but also sets a global example in the battle against this serious liver infection.
Egypt’s Gold Tier Status:
Egypt has earned the prestigious title of being the first country to attain the WHO’s gold tier status in the pursuit of eliminating hepatitis C. This esteemed status is granted to nations that meet specific criteria, including:
- Ensuring 100% blood and injection safety.
- Maintaining a minimum supply of 150 needles/syringes annually for people who inject drugs (PWID).
- Diagnosing over 80% of people living with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV).
- Treating more than 70% of individuals diagnosed with HCV.
- Establishing a sentinel surveillance program for hepatitis sequelae, encompassing liver cancer.
Egypt’s Achievements:
Egypt has made remarkable strides by diagnosing 87% of people living with hepatitis C and providing curative treatment to 93% of those diagnosed. These figures surpass the WHO gold tier targets, showcasing Egypt’s commitment to addressing this public health challenge head-on.
The 100 Million Healthy Lives Initiative:
Egypt’s success can be attributed, in large part, to the implementation of the “100 Million Healthy Lives” initiative. This initiative has been pivotal in reducing the prevalence of hepatitis C from 10% in 2016 to 5% in 2018 and further to an estimated less than 1% in 2019. Through strategic efforts and robust healthcare measures, Egypt has significantly curtailed the spread of this infectious disease.
Understanding Hepatitis C:
Hepatitis C is a liver inflammation caused by the hepatitis C virus, which can lead to both acute and chronic hepatitis. Its severity ranges from mild illness to life-threatening conditions such as liver cirrhosis and cancer. This bloodborne virus primarily spreads through unsafe injection practices, unscreened blood transfusions, injection drug use, and certain sexual practices that expose individuals to infected blood.
Global Impact:
Globally, approximately 58 million people suffer from chronic hepatitis C virus infection, with an alarming 1.5 million new infections reported each year. Despite the pressing need for a vaccine, there is currently no effective preventive measure against hepatitis C. Regions such as the Eastern Mediterranean and Europe bear the heaviest burden of this disease, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive healthcare strategies and international cooperation.
Important Points:
- Egypt’s Achievement:
- Egypt declared the first country to achieve gold tier status in eliminating hepatitis C by the WHO.
- Met specific criteria including ensuring 100% blood and injection safety, diagnosing over 80% of people with HCV, and treating over 70% of diagnosed individuals.
- Initiative and Progress:
- Implemented the “100 Million Healthy Lives” initiative.
- Reduced hepatitis C prevalence from 10% in 2016 to less than 1% in 2019.
- Diagnosed 87% of people living with hepatitis C.
- Provided curative treatment to 93% of diagnosed individuals.
- Hepatitis C Facts:
- Hepatitis C is a liver inflammation caused by the hepatitis C virus.
- Spreads through unsafe injection practices, unscreened blood transfusions, injection drug use, and specific sexual practices involving infected blood.
- Can lead to acute and chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and cancer.
- Globally, about 58 million people have chronic hepatitis C, with 1.5 million new infections annually.
- No effective vaccine currently available.
- Global Impact:
- Highest disease burden in Eastern Mediterranean and European regions.
- Call for International Collaboration:
- Highlights the need for proactive healthcare measures and international cooperation.
- Sets an example for the global community in the fight against infectious diseases.
Why In News
Recently, the World Health Organisation announced that Egypt had made unprecedented progress towards eliminating hepatitis C, marking a significant milestone in the global fight against the disease and offering hope for other nations striving to achieve similar successes.
MCQs about Egypt’s Bold Strides: Leading the World in Hepatitis C Eradication
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What does Egypt’s achievement of gold tier status in hepatitis C elimination signify?
A. Egypt’s development of a new hepatitis C vaccine
B. Egypt’s complete eradication of hepatitis C cases
C. Egypt’s exemplary progress in eliminating hepatitis C according to WHO criteria
D. Egypt’s implementation of a universal healthcare system for hepatitis C patients
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Which initiative played a pivotal role in reducing hepatitis C prevalence in Egypt?
A. 50 Million Healthy Lives
B. Hepatitis-Free Egypt
C. 100 Million Healthy Lives
D. Zero Hepatitis Campaign
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What is the primary mode of transmission for hepatitis C?
A. Airborne droplets
B. Contaminated water
C. Unsafe injection practices and exposure to infected blood
D. Foodborne transmission
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What does the gold tier status in hepatitis C elimination involve according to WHO criteria?
A. 50% blood and injection safety
B. Diagnosing 60% of people living with chronic hepatitis C
C. Ensuring 100% blood and injection safety, diagnosing over 80% of people with HCV, and treating over 70% of diagnosed individuals
D. Establishing a surveillance program for common liver diseases
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