Gleneagles Hospital, Lakdi-ka-Pul, organized a powerful awareness walk on the occasion of World Hepatitis Day to educate the public on liver health and the prevention of liver-related diseases such as hepatitis, liver failure, and liver cancer. The event attracted widespread participation from the public and medical professionals alike.
A Step Towards a Hepatitis-Free India
The 2-kilometer awareness walk was flagged off by Saifabad ACP Sri Sanjay Kumar and Dr. Kavya Dendukuri, Lead Transplant Hepatologist and Liver Specialist at Gleneagles Hospital. Starting from the hospital premises, the walk served as a symbolic and practical step to raise awareness about the silent yet deadly threat of hepatitis in India.
Key Highlights:
- Over 40 million Indians are infected with Hepatitis B, many unknowingly.
- 12 million people are living with Hepatitis C in India.
- Early detection, vaccination, and public education are essential in preventing long-term liver damage.
“The Liver Is the Body’s Powerhouse” – Dr. Kavya Dendukuri
At the event, Dr. Kavya Dendukuri emphasized the liver’s unique role in the body. “The liver is a vital, regenerative organ capable of healing itself. But viruses like Hepatitis B and C can silently destroy liver tissue, often without showing symptoms for years.”
She explained the transmission methods, which include:
- Contaminated syringes and needles
- Bodily fluids and blood transfusions
- Unprotected sex
- Mother-to-child transmission
Vaccination and early screening remain the best defenses against Hepatitis B and C, she said.
Police Support and Medical Fraternity Participation
ACP Sanjay Kumar commended the initiative, stating, “Many people do not realize what’s going on inside their bodies. Awareness events like this make a huge difference in preventing long-term health issues.”
Notable attendees from Gleneagles Hospital included:
- Dr. Tarun Gattu and Dr. D. Manikanteshwar Rao – Liver Transplant Surgeons
- Dr. M. Ganesh Chauhan – Liver Transplant Anaesthetist
- Dr. Sameer Kumar – Medical Gastroenterologist
Along with them, nursing and administrative staff also joined hands to spread the message.
Conclusion
The World Hepatitis Day awareness walk by Gleneagles Hospital, Hyderabad, reflects a strong commitment to liver health and public awareness. With increasing hepatitis cases in India, events like these play a crucial role in driving early diagnosis and encouraging people to take preventive steps.
