On the World Liver Day on April 19, the Gastroenterology Department at AIIMS Bhubaneswar conducted a patient awareness and interaction programme aimed at spreading awareness about liver diseases and the significance of adopting a healthy lifestyle. The event witnessed the participation of over 200 patients and their relatives at the OPD area of the Gastroenterology Department.
Additional Professor in the Department of Gastroenterology Dr Manash Kumar Panigrahi highlighted that out of the 4,000 to 5,000 patients visiting the Gastroenterology department monthly, approximately 1,500 seek consultation for liver-related issues. Stressing the preventability (More than 90% of liver disease is preventable) of liver diseases, Dr Panigrahi emphasized the importance of avoiding alcohol, processed and junk foods, undergoing screening, receiving hepatitis B vaccination, and engaging in regular exercise.
Speaking on the occasion, Executive Director, AIIMS Bhubaneswar, Dr Ashutosh Biswas emphasized the crucial role of lifestyle choices in preventing liver diseases. Dr Biswas cautioned against the indiscriminate use of over-the-counter medications or complementary and alternative medicines for liver ailments, urging patients to seek proper medical advice from physicians.
Head of the Department Dr Subash Chandra Samal along with faculty members, senior residents, and staff, actively participated in the event, underscoring the department's commitment to promoting liver health and disease prevention. This year's World Liver Day’s theme is "Keep your liver healthy and disease-free."
