RIMS, ILDS mark World Hepatitis Day with free testings, rallies & awareness drives
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, July 28 2026: Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, Imphal and the Institute of Liver & Digestive Sciences (ILDS) marked World Hepatitis Day with separate programmes aimed at raising public awareness on prevention, early diagnosis, timely treatment and eliminating stigma associated with the disease, under the global theme "Hepatitis: Let's Break It Down".

At RIMS, New OPD Block, the programme was graced by Director Prof G Sunil Kumar Sharma as chief guest.

Medical Superintendent Prof Nepram Sanjib Singh, Prof K Romeo and Prof Th Shanti Devi from the Department of Medicine, Heads of various Departments, faculty members, doctors, nursing officers, staff, students, patients and members of the public attended.

Addressing the gathering.

Prof Sunil Kumar said hepatitis remains a major public health concern which, if left undiagnosed or untreated, can lead to severe liver damage, liver cirrhosis and even liver cancer.

He stressed that the disease can largely be prevented and effectively managed through early screening, timely diagnosis, vaccination where applicable, and appropriate medical treatment.

He urged the public not to ignore a simple blood test, which can enable early detection and significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Citing the global burden, the Director stated that nearly 240 million people worldwide live with chronic hepatitis.

In India, approximately 40 million people are affected by Hepatitis B, while around 10 million are estimated to be living with Hepatitis C.He noted that hepatitis continues to impose a significant health and socioeconomic burden, making awareness and early intervention crucial.

As part of the observance, RIMS released two informative awareness pamphlets on hepatitis prevention and management and distributed them among participants.

The institute also organised free screening for Hepatitis B and C, along with free consultation and treatment facilities for eligible patients, reaffirming its commitment to preventive healthcare.

Meanwhile, ILDS held an awareness rally from Kangla Western Gate to its hospital campus at Kwakeithel.

Managing Director Dr N Surja Kumar said World Hepatitis Day is globally significant as hepatitis causes over 1.3 million deaths annually.

He explained that Hepatitis B and C often show no symptoms and can silently lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer.

However, with modem science, the disease is now completely curable with proper medication, and Hepatitis B can be fully controlled.

He added that the Government provides diagnosis and treatment through dedicated centers.

In the technical session, Dr Roshlin Keisham gave a talk on 'Introduction to Viral Hepatitis', Dr Ganesh CP on 'Viral Hepatitis A and E', and Dr Surja Kumar on 'Viral Hepatitis B and C'.

Both institutions concluded with a collective pledge to strengthen awareness, encourage early testing, and work toward the elimination of viral hepatitis through sustained public health initiatives and community participation.

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