Karnataka Gastro Center Leads Awareness on World Hepatitis Day 2025 with Walkathon and Free Screening Camp in Bengaluru
Bengaluru, July 28, 2025 –
In a significant stride towards public health, the Karnataka Gastro Center, in collaboration with Lions International District 3170 and other esteemed partner institutions, successfully organized a vibrant Walk-a-Thon and a Free Hepatitis B & C Screening Camp to mark World Hepatitis Day. The initiative, held at Nagapura premises, resonated with the WHO 2025 World Hepatitis Day theme: "Hepatitis: Let's break it down" – emphasizing public awareness, early diagnosis, and preventive action against viral hepatitis.
The event was graced by eminent dignitaries, including:
- Shri Dinesh Gundu Rao, Honorable Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka
- Shri K. Gopalaya, M.L.A., Mahalakshmi Layout
- Dr. C.N. Ashwathnarayana, M.L.A., Malleshwaram
- Senior Lions leaders Shri G Mohan (District Governor), Shri K. Easwaran (1st Vice District Governor), and Dr. Shashidhar Ganjikatti (2nd Vice District Governor)
The program kicked off with an enthusiastic walkathon from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, followed by a comprehensive free screening camp from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Hundreds of individuals availed themselves of the health services offered, which included:
- Free Hepatitis B & C blood testing
- Free FibroScan liver assessments
- Free Hepatitis B vaccinations
- Medical consultations by gastroenterology specialists
During the event, Dr. Umesh Jalihal (Director, Karnataka Gastro Center) and Dr. Irshad Ali H. and Dr. Pavan Kumar Madduri delivered impactful Hepatitis awareness talks. They underscored the critical importance of screening, early detection, timely treatment, and preventive measures in curbing the burden of hepatitis within the community.
The event witnessed active participation from the general public, medical and nursing students, and dedicated volunteers from Northwest Hospital, Fortis Hospital Rajajinagar, Sarvodaya School of Nursing, Sheshadripuram Evening College, and Goutham Nursing College. This collaborative effort has significantly contributed to making the event a successful and impactful public health initiative.
By bringing together expert care, free preventive services, and community engagement, the World Hepatitis Day program in Bengaluru has marked a crucial step forward in the mission to eliminate hepatitis and improve liver health awareness in the region.
