Sp Chopra
Chandigarh : Livasa Hospitals, Punjab’s largest NABH-accredited super specialty hospital chain, organised a press conference at the Press Club, Chandigarh, on 18th April to mark World Liver Day. The event aimed to raise awareness about the growing burden of liver diseases in Punjab with a special focus on liver cirrhosis and to highlight the importance of preventive liver care through expert guidance.
Punjab has been witnessing a steady rise in liver-related ailments, especially liver cirrhosis due to unhealthy lifestyle habits, alcohol consumption, and lack of timely medical intervention. The state accounts for one of the highest rates of liver diseases in the country, making it crucial to enhance awareness and improve healthcare-seeking behaviour.
Dr. Pawan Kumar, Director & CEO, Livasa Hospitals stated, “At Livasa Hospitals, our focus extends beyond treatment—we are equally committed to prevention, awareness, and long-term community health. World Liver Day is a timely reminder that liver diseases, though often silent, are becoming a major health concern pan India. Through early screening, access to advanced medical care, and regular engagement with the public, we aim to reduce the burden of liver-related illnesses. Our hospitals are equipped with leading technology and experienced specialists to handle even the most complex liver conditions. We believe that spreading awareness and encouraging healthier choices is the first step in safeguarding liver health.”
Dr. (Prof) Arunanshu Behera, Director and Professor, HPB, GI Surgery and Liver Transplant highlighted, “The world is now aware of NAFELD, with India being the first country to declare it a non-communicable disease in 2021. Liver cirrhosis is no longer a rare or end-stage concern; we are seeing patients as young as 30 presenting with advanced liver disease. Delayed diagnosis and poor awareness complicate treatment. This year, the theme for World Liver Day is 'Food is Medicine’, and thus we urge people to prioritize liver check-ups and adopt a healthier lifestyle to prevent irreversible damage.”
Dr. Sumeet Kainth, Sr. Consultant Gastroenterology and Hepatology, added, “One of the main concerns in Punjab is alcohol-related liver cirrhosis. While this is preventable, the lack of regular screening and reluctance to seek medical advice early often led to critical conditions. At Livasa Hospitals, we have a multi-disciplinary liver care team equipped to handle complex liver conditions, including transplants.”
Dr. Divij Jayant, Associate Consultant –HPB & General Surgery, shared, “There is a strong connection between general surgical outcomes and underlying liver conditions. When liver health is compromised, even routine surgeries become high-risk. That’s why early diagnosis and liver optimisation are essential before any surgical intervention.”
Dr. Pankaj Kumar, Sr Consultant – Gastroenterology, emphasised, “In our day-to-day practice, we often encounter patients who are unaware of the damage being done to their liver. Many cases are picked up only when the disease has reached an advanced stage. Community awareness and regular health check-ups are key to reversing this trend.”
Dr. Yogendra Kumar, Consultant – Gastroenterology and Hepatology, remarked, “While treatment options have improved significantly, prevention remains our strongest tool. Through lifestyle management, vaccinations for hepatitis, and timely medical attention, many liver conditions can be prevented entirely. We need to move from reactive to proactive care.”
The press conference on World Liver Day served as a reminder that liver health is integral to overall well-being. Livasa Hospitals calls upon individuals to stay informed, go for regular health check-ups, and consult specialists when needed.
