Viral hepatitis remains one of the most critical causes of preventable morbidity and mortality worldwide. The necessary tools for eliminating and controlling these diseases are currently available.

Effective vaccines are available for the prevention of Hepatitis B. Furthermore, with precise diagnostic methods for Hepatitis B and C, along with timely identification, care, and treatment of patients, we can significantly reduce the risk of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer, thereby saving lives. Nevertheless, many people still lack access to required healthcare due to social stigma, limited awareness, health system weaknesses, and social inequalities.

The national slogan for World Hepatitis Day in 2026 (1405) has been designated as: “Towards the Elimination of Hepatitis C: A New Step to Enhance Health in Prisons.”

Education and public awareness regarding viral hepatitis constitute one of the core strategies of the National Program for the Prevention and Control of Hepatitis in Iran. However, designating a specific time of the year to highlight this issue and raise sensitivity among policymakers, officials, and the general public is crucial for aligning efforts toward prevention, control, and elimination of viral hepatitis. As one of the 192 countries committed to the elimination of viral hepatitis, Iran has prioritized this program within its communicable disease control agenda. Nevertheless, significant challenges remain in achieving this goal, chief among which is the expansion of coverage for Hepatitis C diagnosis and treatment.Undoubtedly, a key solution to overcoming this major challenge and attaining the hepatitis elimination targets in Iran is to redefine services within the national health network. This includes incorporating active case-finding mechanisms directly into the healthcare network structure to ensure earlier identification, care, and treatment of affected individuals.

It is hoped that through the support of national and provincial policymakers and leadership, and by mobilizing public participation—focusing on social engagement and expanding universal access to preventive, diagnostic, care, and treatment services—we will witness our country achieving its established goals in eliminating viral hepatitis and promoting the health of our beloved nation.

Dr. Saeed Sardari

Chancellor of Zanjan University of Medical Sciences and Health Services