World Hepatitis Day seminar organised at Rawalpindi Medical University

Rawalpindi: Volunteer Force against Hepatitis Transmission (VFAHT) of Rawalpindi Medical University, VFAHT- Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University and RMU Community Awareness Program in collaboration with Society of Therapeutic Endoscopy Pakistan and RMU organised an awareness seminar here on Monday at RMU New Teaching Block to mark World Hepatitis Day.

World Hepatitis Day is observed on July 28 around the globe mainly with the objectives of creating awareness about various aspects of the disease among public and to sensitise governments on the issue. The theme of World Hepatitis Day 2024 is ‘It's time for action – test, treat and vaccinate’.

In a collaborative effort to enhance liver health awareness, VFAHT-RMU, VFAHT-SHIFA, and RCAP presented the Hepatitis Awareness Seminar with the theme ‘It is time for action’. Vice Chancellor at RMU Professor Dr. Muhammad Umar was the guest of honour while other speakers were Cary James, Chief Executive of World Hepatitis Alliance, Dr. Aftab Ahmed, President of National Academy of Young Scientists, Dr. Mussarat Ishaq, Postdoctoral Consultant, Dr. Tanveer Hussain, Head of Department Gastroenterology at RMU, Dr. Zahid Minhas, Consultant Gastroenterologist, RMU and Dr. Farzana Shafqat, Consultant Gastroenterologist at STMU.

Speaking at the seminar, Professor Umar said the ongoing efforts are required to meet the target of eliminating viral hepatitis as a major public health concern by 2030. He added the objective of the seminar was to sensitise doctors, paramedics, and general public. He also emphasised on the importance of imminent action in the fight against Hepatitis.

He said it is need of the time to get accurate data about the patients suffering from hepatitis in Pakistan so that practical strategies can be devised to eliminate the disease from the country. He appreciated the efforts of Chief Minister Punjab for her program to deliver medicines for treatment of Hepatitis at the patients’ doorsteps. The organizers briefed the participants about various aspects of the infection. The educational event aimed to provide medical students with a comprehensive understanding of hepatitis, including its transmission, symptoms, prevention, and treatment options. The seminar featured expert presentations by leading gastroenterologists, followed by an engaging quiz session to reinforce the knowledge shared.