Honourable Dr Frank Anthony, Minister of Health on September 23 attended and delivered remarks at the 3rd annual meeting of the UN Group of Friends to Eliminate Hepatitis. The meeting was held as a side-event to UNGA 79 on September 23, 2024, in New York City. The theme of this year’s meeting is Health Diplomacy and International Cooperation for the Global Fight against Hepatitis.
Dr Anthony in his remarks reminded the audience that hepatitis disease, in its various forms, remains a silent potent public health threat globally. According to the Minister, an estimated 304 million people live with chronic hepatitis B and C, with many unaware of their infection until it is too late. Hepatitis is responsible for more than 1.3 million deaths annually, a toll that rivals some of the world’s most deadly diseases.
He acknowledged that today’s meeting gives a renewed purpose and determination to all organisations to work together to eliminate hepatitis, a goal which he believes is ambitious but achievable if countries harness the political will, financial investment, and innovative solutions required for this fight.
Solutions required for this fight. The Health Minister in his core speech advocated for policies and strategies governing the need to prioritise access to testing and treatment for hepatitis; affordable hepatitis medication and elimination of the stigma associated with this disease.