Bhubaneswar, April 19: With liver-related diseases rising at an alarming rate across the globe, experts emphasized the importance of healthy lifestyles and early awareness on the occasion of World Liver Day. According to estimates, over 1.5 billion people worldwide suffer from liver diseases, and more than 2 million deaths occur annually due to such conditions.
To raise awareness about liver health, April 19 is observed every year as World Liver Day. The theme for 2026, “Solid Habits, Strong Liver,” highlights the role of disciplined lifestyle choices in maintaining liver health.
Marking the occasion, the Odisha Gastro and Liver Care Foundation organized *The Liver Wellness Summit 2026* at Mayfair in Bhubaneswar under the guidance of renowned gastroenterologist Prof. Dr. Manoj Sahu. Odisha Health Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling inaugurated the event as the chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, the Health Minister underlined that the increasing prevalence of liver diseases, especially fatty liver, poses a major challenge to building a healthy India. He urged people to adopt better lifestyle habits, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding addictions, to keep the liver healthy. Praising Dr. Manoj Sahu’s contribution in the field of gastroenterology and liver transplantation in Odisha, he also announced that liver transplant services will soon be restarted at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack.
The summit was conducted in five thematic sessions, bringing together experts and eminent personalities from various fields. Former Jammu and Kashmir DGP Rashmi Ranjan Swain, Fire Services DGP Sudhanshu Sarangi, IG Fire Dr. Umashankar Dash, actors Anu Choudhury and Bhumika Das, celebrity chef Avinash Nayak, and Adruta Children’s Home founder Prof. Dr. Aditya Mahanty were among the key participants.
In the first session, “Sampark,” Dr. Manoj Sahu interacted directly with over 300 attendees, discussing causes, prevention, and treatment of liver diseases. He stressed that the liver is a vital organ and maintaining its health requires proper diet, regular exercise, avoiding alcohol, and periodic health check-ups.
The second session, “Krutajnyata,” focused on working professionals, where senior police officials and doctors highlighted the importance of taking time out for personal health amid busy schedules. In the third session, “Dayitva,” senior citizens, including Rashmi Ranjan Swain, discussed lifestyle changes and managing liver-related issues.
The fourth session saw participation from actors Anu Choudhury and Bhumika Das, who emphasized balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and practices like yoga and pranayama for overall well-being. The final session, “Sankalp,” dedicated to children, highlighted the importance of healthy eating habits and special care for pregnant women, with inputs from chef Avinash Nayak and medical experts.
The event witnessed participation from police and fire department personnel, senior citizens, women, and students, who appreciated the initiative for spreading awareness on liver health. The program was supported by Dr. Kanishka, Dr. Akash Dhobada, and others.
