In collaboration with Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd., a global pharmaceutical company, the Association of Physicians of India (API), a professional body of consultant physicians established in 1944, concluded its unique ‘Acidity-Free Life’ campaign by officially declaring January 9th as ‘World Acidity Day.’ This groundbreaking initiative, dedicated to raising awareness about acidity, coincides with the birth anniversary of Dr. Soren Sorensen, a Danish chemist known for introducing the concept of pH as a convenient measure of acidity.
The ‘Acidity-Free Life’ campaign, launched in June 2023, involved active participation from over 50,000 doctors in India who selected the logo for ‘World Acidity Day.’ API and Dr. Reddy’s collaborated with Indian Railways and the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) to educate over 10 lakh commuters through the distribution of physical and digital informational material. The campaign culminated with the unveiling of a sand art installation symbolizing ‘World Acidity Day,’ created by Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik at Puri beach on January 9, 2024.
Dr. Jayanta Kumar Panda, Professor and former HOD, SCB Medical College, Cuttack, and Vice Dean, Indian College of Physicians (API), emphasized the high prevalence of acidity in India, contributing to serious health issues. While acknowledging the universal experience of acidity discomfort, Dr. Panda stressed the campaign’s significance in discussing the alarming acidity burden in India. The goal is to educate people on acidity’s risk factors, promote early diagnosis, and stress the importance of timely treatment. The partnership with Dr. Reddy’s, a legacy in acidity management in India for 32 years, marks a commitment to a healthier lifestyle. Going forward, ‘World Acidity Day’ will be observed annually on January 9, fostering a collective resolve for early and effective acidity management.
Acidity has become a widespread health concern due to modern lifestyles and imbalanced diets, resulting in various health complications. A 2021 survey in India revealed that approximately 32 percent of adults aged 30 to 44 reported experiencing acidity and indigestion problems, with higher prevalence among older adults and seniors.
,){kind=link}