World Hepatitis Day observed widely
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, July 28 2025: Joining the rest of the world, World Hepatitis Day was observed widely in the State today to raise awareness about viral hepatitis, a group of infectious diseases that primarily affect the liver.

The day aims to promote prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of hepatitis, as millions are unaware of their chronic infections, which can lead to severe complications.

This year's theme "Hepatitis: Let's Break It Down", emphasises the need for immediate steps to remove the financial, social, and systemic obstacles such as stigma that hinder progress toward eliminating hepatitis and preventing liver cancer.

Today, Nirvana Foundation in collaboration with National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP) observed World Hepatitis Day at Manipur Central Jail, Sajiwa.

The observance was graced by dignitaries, including Syed Abdul Samad, Superintendent of Police, Manipur Central Jail; Dr Indira Longjam, Chief Medical Officer, Imphal East; Dr Micky Hijam Okram, District Nodal Officer, Imphal East, NVHCP; Dr Moirangthem Amaijit, Senior Medical Officer, Manipur Central Jail; and Sobhana Sorokhaibam, secretary, Nirvana Foundation.

At the event, the speakers shared that the programme was organised to raise awareness among the prison inmates about the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of hepatitis.

Similarly, the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal, observed World Hepatitis Day 2025 at Banting Hall RIMS, Imphal today under the theme, "Hepatitis: Let's Break It Down" .

The event focused on raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting action toward hepatitis elimination.

The event was graced by dignitaries, including Prof G Sunil Kumar Sharma, Director, RIMS, Imphal; Prof N Sanjib Singh, Medical Superintendent, RIMS Hospital; Prof S Gojendra Singh, Head, Department of Psychiatry; Dr Th Shanti Devi, Department of Medicine; and S Irananda Singh, president, Community Network for Empowerment (CoNE).

In his address, Prof G Sunil Kumar Sharma highlighted that hepatitis B and C are silent but deadly diseases- preventable, treatable, and often curable.

"Free screening and treatment are available under the NVHCP" said the Director while urging the students and healthcare professionals to break stigma, spread awareness, and work toward eliminating hepatitis by 2030 .

A free screening and vaccination camp was also conducted, reflecting RIMS' community-focused healthcare approach.

Additionally, the Department of Psychiatry, RIMS, Imphal in collaboration with CoNE, also observed World Hepatitis Day at Dr Kamal Hall, focusing on the link between hepatitis, mental health, and substance use, with discussions on integrated care and stigma reduction.

The event was attended by Dr Vijayalakshmi Thangjam, Medical Officer, Model Treatment Centre, RIMS; Dr RK Lenin Singh, Professor, Department of Psychiatry, RIMS; Dr Ng Sameeta Devi, Head in-charge, Department of Clinical Psychology; and Prof S Gojendra, Head, Department of Psychiatry.

CONE president S Irananda Singh and general secretary Nalinikanta Rajkumar were also present at the event.

Comment