The fight against hepatitis begins with awareness. We must continue to educate our communities, correct misinformation, and eliminate the stigma associated with hepatitis infection. Against this backdrop, the Imo State Government, through the Ministry of Health, in partnership with my office, the GoodHope Women Flourish Initiative, and the Rise Against Hepatitis Global Initiative, today commemorated World Hepatitis Day in Owerri, under the global theme: “Hepatitis: Let Us Break It Down.” The day started off with a “Walk for Life” from Control Post, Owerri, to the Imo State Secretariat, and featured health talks, free screenings, and counseling sessions at the Ministry of Health Complex within the Secretariat. Early diagnosis saves lives. We therefore encourage that routine hepatitis screening become part of regular health checks, particularly during antenatal care, before surgeries, and for healthcare workers and other high-risk groups. Treatment today offers renewed hope. While chronic hepatitis B can be effectively managed with lifelong antiviral medications, hepatitis C is now curable in most patients. Prevention remains our strongest weapon. Every newborn should receive the hepatitis B birth-dose vaccine promptly. Safe injection practices, proper screening of donated blood, and adherence to infection prevention measures must remain priorities across all health facilities. I thank all who, through their commitment and partnership, are helping build a healthier Imo State: the Imo State Government, the Ministry of Health, the Rise Against Hepatitis Global Initiative, and all other partners. Together, we are breaking down hepatitis before it breaks down our people.

#WorldHepatitisDay2026 #LetsBreakItDown #EndHepatitis

#ChiomaUzodimma

Barr. Chioma Uzodimma, FIMC, CMC
First Lady of Imo State,
GoodHope Women Flourish Initiative,
Secretary, Renewed Hope Initiative and
Chairperson, First Ladies Against Cancer