The Ministry of Health and Prevention has emphasized that combating viral hepatitis is a key focus in the country’s health policies. This is being achieved through collaborative efforts within the health sector and the implementation of a comprehensive national program that prioritizes prevention, early detection, and treatment. This initiative highlights the effective partnership among various public and private health sectors.
In line with the UAE’s commitment to enhance health system capabilities for community protection, the ministry released a statement today in honor of World Hepatitis Day 2025, observed annually on July 28. This year’s theme is “Hepatitis: Simple Steps to Eliminate It,” underscoring the importance of preventive measures through collective efforts and a commitment to address this disease. The focus is on raising community awareness, educating individuals on preventive measures, and the significance of regular health screenings, alongside expanding healthcare accessibility and integrating care to eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030, in conjunction with the global agenda.
Dr. Hussein Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health, stressed the ministry’s and health authorities’ ongoing efforts to deliver high-quality health services. This includes supporting healthcare providers with the latest diagnostic protocols and effective preventive planning tools, as well as expanding access to specialized testing and treatment, while adopting best global practices in this field.
He further noted that, based on the ministry’s commitment to meeting the World Health Organization’s objectives to eradicate hepatitis by 2030, since 1991, the country has included the hepatitis B vaccine in the national immunization program, achieving vaccination coverage rates of 98%. This places the UAE at the forefront of implementing this advanced preventive approach through early initiatives.
The comprehensive strategy being employed by the nation to combat this disease revolves around key pillars, including enhancing community awareness, strengthening partnerships among various health sectors and available resources, and formulating policies based on solid scientific foundations supported by data and evidence. Additionally, preventive plans aimed at curbing the spread of the disease and expanding advanced diagnostic and therapeutic services are essential components of this strategy.
The government is keen on updating legislative frameworks to bolster community resilience against diseases. This has led to the development of medical fitness testing procedures for various groups, incorporating screenings for hepatitis B and C, as well as providing vaccination services for specific groups such as travelers, healthcare workers, and those undergoing pre-marital and professional health assessments.
The national efforts also leverage advanced technology for public health benefit, exemplified by the “Hassant” app, which features an advanced tracking system for childhood vaccinations and community members. This facilitates the monitoring of health records and the electronic documentation of data and information, adhering to the highest global health standards to establish a proactive and sustainable health system that aligns with the “We Are the UAE 2031” vision and “UAE Centennial 2071.”