UAE Leads Regional Fight Against Hepatitis, Says MoHAP

This article discusses the United Arab emirates’ (UAE) commitment to fighting viral hepatitis as a strategic priority within its national health policies.

Here are the key takeaways:

Integrated National Program: The UAE has implemented a complete program focused on prevention, early detection, and treatment of viral hepatitis.
Cross-Sectoral Collaboration: This program highlights the UAE’s strong partnerships between the public and private health sectors.
World Hepatitis Day 2025: The remarks were made in conjunction wiht World Hepatitis Day, emphasizing the theme “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down.” This theme calls for raising awareness, education, screening, access to healthcare, and the elimination of hepatitis as a public health problem by 2030.
Proactive Prevention: The UAE has been proactive in its approach, notably including the hepatitis B vaccine in its national immunization program since 1991, achieving 98% vaccination coverage.
Four Key Pillars of Strategy: The UAE’s strategy to combat hepatitis is built on:
Raising community awareness. Fostering collaboration and resource optimization. Developing evidence-based health policies.
Implementing forward-looking preventive measures.
Legislative and Regulatory strengthening: The government is continuously developing its legal and regulatory frameworks, including mandatory hepatitis B and C testing in medical fitness screening for certain groups.
Vaccination Availability: Vaccination services are available for specific groups like travelers, healthcare workers, and those undergoing premarital and occupational screenings.
Leveraging Technology: The UAE is using advanced digital solutions, such as the “Al Hosn” app, for tracking immunization records, supporting public health efforts.* Aligning with National Visions: The UAE’s healthcare standards are aligned with national visions like “We the UAE 2031” and the UAE Centennial 2071, aiming for a proactive and enduring healthcare system.

What specific strategies does the UAE employ to prevent mother-to-child transmission of Hepatitis B?

National Strategies for Hepatitis Elimination

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is taking a leading role in the regional effort to combat viral hepatitis, according to recent statements from the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP). This commitment manifests in comprehensive national strategies aimed at eliminating Hepatitis B and C by 2030, aligning with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) global goals. These strategies aren’t just aspirational; they’re backed by significant investment and proactive public health initiatives.

Key Pillars of the UAE’s Hepatitis Elimination programme

The UAE’s approach is multi-faceted, focusing on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and surveillance.here’s a breakdown of the core components:

Expanded Screening Programs: Nationwide screening initiatives are crucial for identifying individuals infected with Hepatitis B and C, many of whom are unaware of their status. These programs target high-risk populations, including those with a history of blood transfusions, intravenous drug use, and individuals born to infected mothers.

Universal Vaccination: The UAE has a robust national immunization program that includes Hepatitis B vaccination at birth, significantly reducing the incidence of new infections. Continued efforts focus on maintaining high vaccination coverage rates.

Direct-acting Antiviral (DAA) Therapy Access: The MoHAP ensures widespread access to cutting-edge DAA therapies for Hepatitis C, offering a cure rate exceeding 95%.This commitment extends to providing treatment free of charge to eligible patients.

Enhanced Surveillance Systems: Strengthened surveillance systems are in place to monitor the prevalence of hepatitis, track treatment outcomes, and identify emerging trends. This data-driven approach allows for targeted interventions and resource allocation.

Public Awareness Campaigns: Ongoing public health campaigns aim to raise awareness about hepatitis, its modes of transmission, and the importance of early detection and treatment. these campaigns utilize various channels, including social media, community events, and educational materials.

Advancements in Hepatitis B & C Treatment in the UAE

The UAE has been at the forefront of adopting innovative treatment options for both Hepatitis B and C.

Hepatitis C: The DAA Revolution

The introduction of DAAs has revolutionized hepatitis C treatment globally, and the UAE has been rapid to embrace this advancement.

Sofosbuvir & Velpatasvir: These are commonly prescribed DAAs in the UAE, offering a short course of treatment with minimal side effects and high cure rates.

Treatment Accessibility: The UAE’s commitment to providing free treatment to eligible patients removes financial barriers to accessing life-saving medication.

simplified Treatment Protocols: Treatment protocols have been streamlined,making it easier for healthcare providers to administer and monitor therapy.

Hepatitis B: management and Prevention

While a cure for Hepatitis B remains elusive, the UAE focuses on effective management and prevention strategies:

Antiviral Medications: Long-term antiviral therapy is available to suppress the virus and prevent liver damage.

Regular Monitoring: Patients with chronic Hepatitis B undergo regular monitoring of liver function and viral load to assess treatment effectiveness and detect any complications.

Mother-to-Child Transmission Prevention: Strategies to prevent mother-to-child transmission of Hepatitis B are rigorously implemented, including vaccination and antiviral prophylaxis.

Regional Collaboration & Knowledge Sharing

the UAE isn’t just focused on its own internal efforts. It actively collaborates with regional and international partners to share best practices and support hepatitis elimination initiatives across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

WHO Partnerships: The UAE works closely with the WHO to implement global hepatitis elimination strategies and participate in regional initiatives.

Knowledge Exchange Programs: The UAE hosts and participates in knowledge exchange programs, sharing its experiences and expertise with other countries.

Supporting Neighboring Countries: the UAE provides technical assistance and financial support to neighboring countries to strengthen their hepatitis control programs.

Benefits of a Hepatitis-Free UAE

Eliminating hepatitis would have profound benefits for the UAE’s public health system and economy:

Reduced Liver Disease Burden: A significant reduction in the incidence of liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure.

Improved Quality of Life: Enhanced quality of life for individuals living with hepatitis and their families.

* Increased Productivity: A healthier workforce, leading to increased productivity and