A decade ago, Egypt was struggling with one of the highest rates of hepatitis C in the world. This viral infection, transmitted through contact with infected blood, causes damage to the liver and can be fatal. However, by 2023, Egypt had made remarkable progress in tackling the disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognized Egypt as the first country on track to completely eradicate hepatitis C by 2030, a feat described by the WHO’s director-general as “nothing short of astounding.”
Dr. Khaled Kabil played a crucial role in leading Egypt’s efforts to combat hepatitis C. As the head of Egypt’s National Committee for Prevention and Control of Viral Hepatitis since its establishment in 2006, Dr. Kabil spearheaded a nationwide testing and treatment campaign. This initiative was made possible through a groundbreaking deal to purchase antiviral drugs at a significant discount and produce generic versions of the treatments locally for even lower costs.
Under Dr. Kabil’s leadership, Egypt established 150 treatment centers across the country, reaching millions of individuals and helping reduce the prevalence of hepatitis C to below 1% of the population. The success of Egypt’s efforts has been so remarkable that the country has started donating hepatitis C medications to other African nations. This gesture aims to not only support progress in neighboring countries but also to contribute to global health on a larger scale.