Gastroenterologists form network to raise public awareness about stomach ailments

In view of sweltering heat in the holy month of Ramzan, gastroenterologists have urged people to avoid overeating and unhygienic drinks, which are the main cause of diarrhea and gastroenteritis.

At a news conference held at the Karachi Press Club on Thursday, the medical experts feared that an alarming increase in gastrointestinal diseases could be on the rise in Ramzan if those fasting did not prefer home-made food over unhealthy food available at roadside stalls. 

“People should avoid over-eating in Ramzan at the time of Sahar and Iftar and restrain from consuming fried items sold in market, including pakoras and samosas. They should also avoid roadside drinks to stay healthy and fit,” said gastroenterologist Dr. Shahid Ahmed, who is an associate professor at the Darul Sehat Hospital.

On the occasion, Dr Ahmed announced formation of the Pakistan Network of Liver and Gastroenterology (PNLG), a body comprising top gastroenterologists from different public and private hospitals in Karachi. He vowed to hold public awareness sessions for the public and training sessions for the young doctors so that they could properly diagnose and treat stomach diseases and serve the people effectively. Those who were present at the presser included Dr Zahid Azam and Dr Hafeezullah Shaikh from the Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS); Dr Sajjad Jamil from the Liaquat National Hospital, Dr Lubna Kamani from the Aga Khan University Hospital, Dr Shahid Mahmood from the National Medical Center, Dr Nazish Butt from the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Dr Mukesh Kumar from the Liaquat College of Dentistry. Specialists from the PNLG were also present.

Referring to World Digestive Disease Day, which is observed on May 29 all over the world, Dr Shahid Ahmed said stomach and intestinal diseases were on the rise in Pakistan, especially among women but they were reluctant to approach male gastroenterologists due to their shy nature.

“We are aiming at enhancing understanding of common people regarding stomach and intestinal diseases, their symptoms, treatment options and precautions that can prevent them from various preventable diseases,” he said. 

Dr Ahmed also unveiled the PNLG website at the news conference. He said people and young doctors could freely approach senior gastroenterologists in Karachi through the website and learn about various health conditions and seek guidance in their training and management.