Iran Sets Ambitious Goal to Eliminate Hepatitis C by March 2027: Aiming for a Healthier Future

The Iranian health ministry is on a determined mission to eliminate hepatitis C by the Iranian year 1405 (March 2026 – March 2027). This ambitious goal is backed by rigorous planning and a collaborative effort from various sectors, as stated by Deputy Health Minister Alireza Raeisi.

During his address at the World Hepatitis Day 2025 global webinar on July 28, Raeisi emphasized the ongoing implementation of diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive policies aimed at achieving international recognition for hepatitis C eradication. This includes striving for bronze, silver, and ultimately gold medals in the global fight against this disease, as reported by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA).

Here are some key highlights from Raeisi’s address:

• Iran has made significant progress in managing diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis, despite its borders with Afghanistan and Pakistan, where infectious diseases are prevalent.
• Successful vaccination programs, injection safety measures, blood screening, and efforts to prevent mother-to-child transmission have been implemented.
• The health ministry aims to identify 60% of hepatitis C cases and treat 40% of those by March 2026.

Raeisi noted that between 13,000 and 21,000 new hepatitis C cases are diagnosed annually. The plan for achieving bronze, silver, and gold medals in hepatitis eradication includes:

1. Bronze Medal: Identify 60% of infected individuals and treat 40% of them by March 2026.
2. Silver Medal: Diagnose 70% of individuals with hepatitis C and cure 60% of them.
3. Gold Medal: Treat 70-80% of the affected population.

Raeisi emphasized that the elimination of hepatitis is not merely a slogan but a serious national commitment. The national hepatitis elimination program focuses on:

• Active case finding among high-risk groups, including addicts, prisoners, patients with rare diseases, and refugees.
• Providing free treatment and public insurance coverage.

In light of the challenges posed by sanctions, Raeisi called on the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) for continued support in achieving these ambitious goals. He praised their efforts in supplying necessary equipment, sharing knowledge, and reducing harm among high-risk populations.

Hepatitis is caused by various infectious viruses and non-infectious agents, leading to a range of health problems, some of which can be fatal. One of the most pressing issues is the low coverage of testing and treatment, which must be addressed to meet global elimination goals by 2030.

Hepatitis Awareness Week

The national Hepatitis Awareness Week is taking place from July 26 to August 2, focusing on a campaign titled ‘Moving Toward Eliminating Hepatitis’. This initiative aims to:

• Raise public awareness about hepatitis.
• Provide scientific information about the disease to the community.
• Screen high-risk groups.
• Engage non-governmental organizations and policymakers.

Various media outlets, universities, and organizations are encouraged to participate in the campaign’s implementation. Expanding access to hepatitis C diagnosis and treatment remains a top priority for the health ministry.

Managing hepatitis B and C presents significant challenges for Iran’s health system. Qobad Moradi, an official at the health ministry, indicated that eliminating these diseases by 2030 is one of their primary objectives. With over three million people living with chronic hepatitis B and C globally, the need for higher vaccination coverage and disease identification is critical. Currently, only 45% of newborns receive hepatitis B vaccination within 24 hours of birth.

Moradi pointed out that thanks to free and effective treatment options, early diagnosis can help prevent severe complications, such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. The theme for 2025, ‘Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down,’ calls for urgent action to dismantle the financial, social, and systemic barriers, including stigma, that hinder progress toward hepatitis elimination and liver cancer prevention.

In conclusion, Iran’s commitment to eliminating hepatitis C by 2026 showcases a proactive approach to public health. The concerted efforts of the health ministry, international organizations, and local communities will be vital in achieving these goals.