Quezon city: The Quezon City government on Wednesday launched an intensified campaign against Hepatitis B and C through a "Model of Care" program prioritizing early testing and timely treatment for its residents.

According to Philippines News Agency, the program was rolled out at the Quezon City Hall as a joint effort among the city government, through its Health Department (QCHD); the University of the Philippines; and the Strengthening the Integrated Treatment and Care for Hepatitis or StITCH initiative. This initiative aligns with the city's goal of reducing liver diseases, which are preventable with early diagnosis and treatment.

In her Facebook post, QC Mayor Joy Belmonte emphasized the importance of knowing one's health status to treat the disease and prevent serious complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. She highlighted the benefits of the Model of Care program in bringing health services closer to communities, offering free community-based services, including Hepatitis screening, counselling, and treatment.

During the launch, QC residents were encouraged to participate in free testing and counselling services. The World Health Organization's 2024 Global Hepatitis Report notes that Hepatitis is the second deadliest communicable disease worldwide, with increasing deaths caused by the illness. The report revealed that 254 million people live with Hepatitis B and 50 million with Hepatitis C globally, with deaths rising to 1.3 million in 2022 from 1.1 million in 2019.

The WHO report also detailed that Hepatitis B caused 83 percent of the deaths, while Hepatitis C accounted for 17 percent. It highlighted that half of chronic Hepatitis B and C infections are among people aged 30-54, with 58 percent of cases among men and 12 percent among children, particularly for Hepatitis B.

In the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH) estimated that one in 10 adults may be chronically infected with Hepatitis B. The 2024 Global Hepatitis Report found that about 2 percent, or 6.1 million, of global Hepatitis B and C cases are Filipinos, underscoring the urgent need for early detection and treatment in the country. The DOH warned that Hepatitis could lead to liver cancer if neglected.

Mayor Belmonte stated that the city would continue to expand its awareness drives, vaccination campaigns, and treatment services while strongly condemning stigma against people who undergo testing or are diagnosed with the disease.