Desun Hospital Marks World Hepatitis Day 2026 with Free Screening, Public Awareness and Medical Education

July 29, 2026 Kolkata, 28 July 2026: Reinforcing its commitment to combating viral hepatitis through awareness, early detection and timely treatment, Desun Hospital observed World Hepatitis Day 2026 with a series of public health initiatives centred on this year’s global theme, “Hepatitis: Let’s Break it Down”.

The programme brought together specialists, patients, healthcare professionals and members of the local community to raise awareness about Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C, two infections that continue to pose a significant public health challenge worldwide.

Leading the initiative, Dr Sunil Baran Das Chakraborty, Head, Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatobiliary Sciences, along with Dr Nilay Chatterjee, Associate Consultant, Gastroenterology, and Dr Twisha Chakraborty, Junior Consultant, Gastroenterology, conducted interactive patient awareness sessions highlighting the importance of vaccination, preventive measures, early diagnosis and the availability of effective treatment for viral hepatitis.

As part of the observance, Desun Hospital also provided complimentary Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C screening for the first 100 participants, including residents from neighbouring communities, encouraging individuals to undergo testing even in the absence of symptoms.

world hepatitis day

Helping to extend the impact beyond the hospital, Desun’s Gastroenterology team, led by Dr Sunil Baran Das Chakraborty, also organised a Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme for rural medical practitioners, equipping them with the latest knowledge on hepatitis screening, diagnosis, referral pathways and management. The initiative aimed to strengthen early detection and awareness across rural and semi-urban communities, where delayed diagnosis often leads to preventable complications.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sunil Baran Das Chakraborty, Head, Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatobiliary Sciences, Desun Hospital, said, “Viral hepatitis remains a silent disease because many patients do not experience symptoms until significant liver damage has already occurred. In a state like West Bengal, where population density is high and awareness about liver diseases still needs strengthening, timely screening and vaccination are crucial. Hepatitis B is preventable through vaccination, while Hepatitis C is now curable with modern antiviral therapies.”

Dr Das Chakraborty added that World Hepatitis Day reminds us that awareness, early diagnosis and timely treatment can prevent cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer. Equally important is educating primary care physicians and rural healthcare providers so that more patients are identified and treated before complications develop.

Talking on the hospital’s commitment to comprehensive liver care, Mr Sajal Dutta, Chairman & Managing Director, Desun Hospital, said, “At Desun, we have developed a comprehensive ecosystem for the diagnosis and management of Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. From advanced laboratory diagnostics and imaging facilities to specialised gastroenterology and hepatology expertise, we are equipped to provide accurate diagnosis, evidence-based treatment and long-term follow-up for patients with liver disease. Through initiatives such as free community screening and continuous medical education, we are committed to making quality liver care more accessible while promoting awareness and prevention across the communities we serve.”

Desun Hospital continues to strengthen its commitment to reducing the burden of viral hepatitis and building healthier communities through accessible, patient-centric healthcare through initiatives that combine public awareness, preventive screening and continuing medical education.
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