Updated On: 04 Aug 2026
India is stepping up efforts to combat Hepatitis B through an expanded nationwide screening programme, as millions of people continue to live with the infection without being aware of their condition. Under the Mission Defeat Hepatitis campaign, Cipla has partnered with the Indian National Association for the Study of the Liver to raise awareness, promote early diagnosis and improve access to Hepatitis B screening.
According to the organisers, India accounts for nearly 12 per cent of the global Hepatitis B burden, with an estimated 4 crore people living with chronic infection. However, only about 3 per cent of cases are diagnosed, while less than 1 per cent of patients receive appropriate treatment, leaving many vulnerable to serious liver diseases such as cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Nationwide Screening Initiative:
Marking World Hepatitis Day, more than 5,000 doctors from across the country participated in the first phase of the campaign, supporting 1.5 lakh Hepatitis B screenings. The initiative earned recognition from the International Book of Records and now aims to expand its reach by conducting over 2.5 lakh screenings through more than 8,500 screening camps nationwide.
As part of the awareness campaign, organisers also unveiled the World’s Largest Liver Model, created using Hepatitis B antigen test kit covers that will be used during the screening drive. The installation is intended to emphasise the importance of timely testing and early diagnosis.
Jaideep Gogtay, Chief Medical Officer at Cipla, said awareness and early diagnosis remain the most effective ways to identify infected individuals and connect them with timely treatment. He added that the campaign brings together healthcare professionals, scientific organisations and communities to improve screening access and reduce the disease burden.
Supporting the initiative, Ajay Duseja, Secretary General of INASL, said early diagnosis is critical for effective Hepatitis B management and that collaborative efforts can significantly improve patient outcomes. Healthcare experts associated with the campaign also stressed that expanding screening programmes and strengthening public awareness are essential to preventing advanced liver disease and improving long-term health outcomes for millions of Indians.
