Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Hyderabad organized a discussion on “Winning the battle against Hepatitis” on ‘World Hepatitis Day’.

This year, the theme for World Hepatitis Day 2018 is “Eliminate Hepatitis”. Former Indian Cricketer Padmasri VVS Laxman, Padma Bhushan & Shantha Biotech Founder Mr. Varaprasad Reddy, MD & CEO, KIMS Hospitals, Dr B Bhaskar Rao participated in the event which is organized by the Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, KIMS Hospitals.

The five known hepatitis viruses are types A, B, C, D and E. Viral hepatitis affects lakhs of people across the country, but as many infections are accompanied by no symptoms, this ‘silent disease’ is often not diagnosed. Left untreated, chronic infection with hepatitis B and C may progress to liver cirrhosis or cancer at an advanced stage.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Laxman said, “Viral Hepatitis is known as a silent disease and often goes undiagnosed. It is important to raise awareness and I am glad that KIMS Hospitals has taken-up the responsibility. With the advancements in science, there is quality care available along with new methods of treatment. Also, there are vaccines available to prevent Hepatitis A and B. It is important that these messages go into public,” he added.

Dr Sethu Babu, Consultant Gastroenterologist, KIMS Hospitals said, “We organized this discussion with the objective to raise public awareness on various forms of the hepatitis including means of transmission and also to let the people know about different measures like prevention, early diagnosis, screening, control and Vaccines.”

“Hepatitis A and E are infected through contaminated water and C through sharing of needles, equipment injecting cosmetic substances, steroids or drugs. A and E type are short term water contamination born infection and known as acute infection and however B, C and D type are long-term infection and called as chronichepatitis. Hepatitis B and C lead to serious complications including cirrhosis and liver cancer, liver failure leading to death,” he added.

Hepatitis B can be prevented with vaccination and now is a successful approach both by Government and public constitutes. Hepatites C though there is no Vaccine can be treated very effectively with oral drugs now available at very low cost in our country compared to west , Dr Babu added.