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Liver disease has become alarmingly widespread in Bangladesh and is increasing at an alarming rate. Each year, thousands of people lose their lives to this deadly illness due to lack of awareness, ignorance, superstition, and limited access to proper treatment and information. In particular, infections caused by Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C viruses have silently emerged as a major public health crisis in the country. Additionally, complications arising from fatty liver disease have further accelerated liver-related mortality, and the rate continues to grow rapidly. In this context, the National Liver Foundation of Bangladesh was established in 1999 with the aim of prevention, treatment, education, and research on liver diseases. Since its inception, the foundation has played a vital role in raising public awareness across the country about hepatitis and other liver diseases.
The Liver Foundation is not only well-recognized within Bangladesh but also holds a significant presence on the international stage. It is a member of the World Hepatitis Alliance, based in Geneva, which works globally to combat hepatitis. Furthermore, the foundation operates as a partner of the Coalition for Global Hepatitis Elimination, USA, and is also a member of the Bangladesh Network for NCD Control and Prevention (BNNCP), which works on the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases. It is registered under the Ministry of Social Welfare of the Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh to operate nationwide.
Spread of Liver Disease in Bangladesh
According to various international and national reports, around 4.4% of the Bangladeshi population is infected with Hepatitis B, while 0.6% are infected with Hepatitis C. These two viruses are the leading causes of liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure in the country. Moreover, over 33% of the population is affected by fatty liver (NAFLD), which is one of the major contributors to liver cirrhosis. The general public lacks sufficient knowledge about these diseases, which contributes to the growing prevalence. However, with awareness and timely preventive measures and treatment, people can recover and lead normal, healthy lives. Considering this reality, the National Liver Foundation of Bangladesh has been conducting activities focused on increasing awareness about Hepatitis B and C, vaccination campaigns, diagnostic testing, providing necessary treatment services, offering free treatment for underprivileged people, and conducting Hepatitis B vaccination programs. Awareness programs about fatty liver disease are also being carried out.Activities of the National Liver Foundation of Bangladesh in the Holy Land of Sylhet
In 2008, the foundation began its awareness efforts in Sylhet by celebrating “Sylhet Hepatitis Day”, aiming to educate the local population about hepatitis and liver diseases. Since then, it has been consistently trying to continue its awareness initiatives through various small and large events. Noteworthy among these initiatives are the repeated celebrations of Sylhet Hepatitis Day, observance of World Hepatitis Day, awareness seminars, awareness rallies, publication of informative articles in newspapers, distribution of posters and leaflets, and conducting free Hepatitis B testing and vaccination programs for orphans in government-run children’s homes across different districts in the Sylhet division. In 2008, the foundation was honored by the Divisional Commissioner of Sylhet in recognition of its contributions.To expand liver disease treatment services across the country and, in particular, to benefit the people of Sylhet Division, the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh has allocated a piece of land in the holy city of Sylhet to the National Liver Foundation of Bangladesh. On this land, the foundation has constructed a permanent building with its own funding. This facility will regularly offer treatment for liver diseases, include a government-approved laboratory, and provide necessary diagnostic services. Specialist doctors will provide regular services at this center. Most importantly, the cost of services will be kept within the reach of the general public, and free treatment will be provided to the underprivileged and vulnerable. Such an initiative is rare in different regions of the country and is undoubtedly a great blessing for the people of Sylhet.
Formal Inauguration of the National Liver Foundation of Bangladesh’s Permanent Facility in Sylhet
Alhamdulillah, today, Saturday, May 31, 2025, the National Liver Foundation of Bangladesh officially begins its prevention and treatment operations for hepatitis and other liver diseases at its own premises located in the Purbo Shahi Eidgah area of Sylhet city. The presence of the Divisional Commissioner of Sylhet Division as the chief guest, along with the Deputy Commissioner of Sylhet, the Divisional Director (Health), the Civil Surgeon of Sylhet, and the Principal of MAG Osmani Medical College as special guests, will serve as inspiration and motivation for our future endeavors. Their presence will also play an important role in conveying the purpose and significance of this institution to the public. We express our sincere gratitude to all the doctors, medical students, journalists, and representatives of various social and health organizations who have joined us in this noble initiative. At the inauguration ceremony, a timely and humanitarian initiative has been launched — the free Hepatitis B vaccination of the residents of the Government Children’s Home (Girls), Raynagar. This campaign will provide essential protection to underprivileged children against hepatitis. Undoubtedly, this initiative will inspire others to step forward in vaccinating children and will strengthen the country’s overall hepatitis prevention efforts.A Timely and Essential Step
This initiative is not limited to just establishing a health center. It will also serve as a center for awareness and education. The center will organize awareness campaigns, seminars, health camps, and research programs on liver diseases at regular intervals. This center holds immense significance for the people of Sylhet Division and the northeastern region of the country. Liver disease and hepatitis are serious public health issues in Bangladesh. Without timely preventive measures, proper treatment, and widespread public awareness, overcoming these challenges is not possible. The National Liver Foundation of Bangladesh has been playing a pivotal role in this area.
The newly established Liver Center in Sylhet will serve as a milestone in the treatment and prevention of liver diseases. This initiative will expand the scope of healthcare in the country and bring about a positive change in people’s lives. Let us all stand together in support of this noble initiative and contribute to the realization of a healthy, liver disease-free Bangladesh. There is an urgent need to construct a modern, well-equipped, specialized Liver Hospital on the allocated land in Sylhet. The National Liver Foundation of Bangladesh earnestly appeals to the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, as well as to the honorable citizens residing at home and abroad, to extend their full support and cooperation in establishing a specialized liver hospital in Sylhet.
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Author: Professor Mohammad Ali
Secretary General, National Liver Foundation of Bangladesh
