Administering the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth is one of the most effective ways to protect newborns from future liver cancer and chronic hepatitis B infection. However, only 15–25% of babies in Pakistan receive this crucial vaccine within the recommended time window.

Hepatitis B is a silent killer that can remain undetected for years, ultimately leading to liver damage, cirrhosis, or cancer. Immediate vaccination at birth is the first and most essential step to shield infants from lifelong risks.

Despite the vaccine’s availability, challenges such as limited access to birth-dose vaccination, lack of awareness, and gaps in delivery infrastructure are hindering coverage. This low percentage leaves the majority of newborns vulnerable to one of the world’s most severe infectious diseases.

Increasing hepatitis B vaccine coverage within the first 24 hours can significantly reduce the burden of liver cancer in adulthood. Public health experts are calling for enhanced education, better healthcare coordination, and stronger policy enforcement to ensure that every newborn in Pakistan gets this life-saving protection.

Strengthening newborn vaccination programs is not just a health priority; it’s a national necessity to protect future generations.