Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), Sempora, on Tuesday observed World Hepatitis Day with an awareness programme highlighting the importance of hepatitis prevention, early detection, timely treatment, and public awareness to eliminate the disease.
The programme, organised by the Department of Microbiology, brought together senior faculty members and health professionals who emphasised the need to strengthen public awareness, promote routine screening, and encourage preventive measures to reduce burden of viral hepatitis.
The event was attended by Executive Director KMCH Insha Qazi, Principal Prof. (Dr.) Nazir Ahmad Khan, Head of the Department of Microbiology Prof. (Dr.) Syed Khursheed, Medical Superintendent Dr. Syed Mubashir, Heads of various departments, faculty members, and doctors.
Addressing the gathering, Executive Director Insha Qazi underlined the importance of regular screening and timely medical intervention in preventing complications associated with viral hepatitis. She said awareness, early diagnosis, vaccination, and access to appropriate treatment are essential to achieving the global goal of eliminating hepatitis as a public health threat.
Speaking on the occasion, Principal Prof. (Dr.) Nazir Ahmad Khan described hepatitis as a “dangerous disease” that spreads silently and gradually damages the liver.
He said creating awareness about hepatitis is a shared responsibility of healthcare institutions and doctors.
He urged doctors to make hepatitis screening a part of routine clinical practice to ensure early diagnosis and timely treatment.
“Doctors have to become the first line of defence in protecting liver health and preventing liver diseases. It is our duty to promote awareness, encourage regular screening, and work towards eliminating hepatitis,” he said.
Head of the Department of Microbiology, Prof. (Dr.) Syed Khursheed, said many people infected with hepatitis remain unaware of their condition, making routine screening crucial to prevent the spread of the infection.
“At KMCH, we strongly advocate routine screening for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. These tests are already available at our hospital, and we will soon introduce molecular diagnostics along with other advanced conventional testing methods to further strengthen our diagnostic services,” he said.
Describing hepatitis as a “silent killer”, he said the disease can be effectively controlled through early detection, vaccination, timely treatment, and sustained public awareness.
“Programmes like these are vital to sensitise people and convey the message that awareness, regular screening, and early treatment are essential to eliminating hepatitis,” he added.
Medical Superintendent Dr. Syed Mubashir congratulated the Department of Microbiology for organising the World Hepatitis Day programme and appreciated its efforts in spreading awareness about the disease.
“At KMCH, we are providing free vaccines under the Universal Immunisation Programme. In addition, vaccines for both children and adults are available free of cost. We are also offering hepatitis screening at highly subsidised rates compared to the market, making early detection and prevention more accessible to the public,” he said.
The programme concluded with a renewed commitment by KMCH to continue organising awareness initiatives, expand community outreach programmes, and strengthen preventive healthcare efforts to promote liver health and encourage timely healthcare-seeking behaviour.
