Bhubaneswar: More than 200 people joined the Kalinga Hospital Ltd-organised Walkathon on Friday to observe World Hepatitis Day.
The Walkathon was aimed to create mass awareness against the fatal disease hepatitis. The participants carried placards and banners inscribed with slogans on hepatitis.
The walk was led by Kalinga Hospital MD Nilanjana Mukherjee, Senior Consultant Dr Ananta Agasti and Consultant Gastroenterologist Dr Debakanta Mishra, along with Medical Superintendent Dr. PK Mishra and Chief Manager Administration Devee Prasad Nanda.
“Prevention is possible! Vaccines and effective treatments exist, offering hope for all. Hepatitis B vaccine is available for both adults and children, while safe oral treatments can cure hepatitis C. Knowing their status and accessing treatment is crucial for pregnant women with chronic viral hepatitis B to prevent mother-to-child transmission,” said Dr Agasti, Senior Consultant, Gastroenterology.
The call on World Hepatitis Day 2023, which is themed ‘We’re not waiting; One life, one liver,’ is to “accelerate elimination efforts of viral hepatitis and urgent need for testing and treatment for the real people who need it.”
The campaign focuses on raising awareness on different forms of hepatitis, what they are and how they are transmitted, who is at risk and various methods of prevention and treatment.
“Hepatitis can be managed with early detection. Let’s join hands towards spreading awareness and protect our Liver,” said KHL MD Nilanjana.
