Asem Bhakta, Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal observed “World Hepatitis Day 2024” under the theme “It’s Time for Action” today at General OPD, RIMS, Imphal in association with Model Treatment Centre, RIMS, Imphal organized by the Department of Medicine, RIMS, Imphal.
Speaking on the event, Prof. G. Sunil Kumar Sharma, Director RIMS, Imphal emphasized on the theme “It’s Time for Action” re-emphasizing its purpose and importance of observing the day. The purpose is to raise awareness to public of our society since much of the public is unaware of disease. As a health care provider, it is our duty to take a lead and act toward stopping the disease by dedicating our service for the people. We need to accelerate efforts in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment to save lives and improve health outcomes. Hepatitis can cause inflammation to the liver and can lead to severe liver disease and even cancer.
Further stated, despite RIMS have all the facilities and advancement in diagnostic tools and treatment; we need to overcome the barriers to testing and treatment coverage between public and the health care provider. The World Health Organization (WHO) also aims to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030. So we all need to take action to help eradicating the disease by sharing information with friends, family and community. Lastly, the Director RIMS, Imphal appealed public to come out and performed the test for hepatitis. RIMS will advocate for treatment and take care all.
As a part of the observance, Free screening for Hep-B and Hep-C cum consultation camp, Free Titre Measurement of Hep-B antibody for health workers were also held during the program. Total 104 samples were tested for hepatitis B and C out of which near to 4 percent were turn out positive for hepatitis C and 59 antibody were also tested.
The program was attended by HOD,s, Principal of Dental College, RIMS, Imphal, Principal College of Nursing, RIM, Imphal, faculties, Chief Nursing officer, Nursing officials, staff and students of RIMS, Imphal
