Pakistan, July 28 -- Pakistan marked World Hepatitis Day with a renewed pledge to eliminate hepatitis C as a public health threat by 2030, as President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for a united national effort to combat the disease.

Read More: PM expresses resolve to eliminate hepatitis, ensure equitable health

In separate messages issued on the occasion, both leaders stressed that hepatitis C is preventable and treatable if detected early, while highlighting the need for stronger cooperation among the federal and provincial governments, healthcare professionals, the private sector, civil society and the public.

President Zardari said Pakistan remains among the countries most affected by hepatitis C, making...