Bhubaneswar, July 28: Utkal Hospital observed World Hepatitis Day 2026 at its Basement Auditorium in Niladri Vihar with a series of awareness activities aimed at promoting early diagnosis, timely treatment and prevention of hepatitis. The programme was organised in line with this year’s global theme, “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down,” which focuses on removing barriers to awareness, testing, treatment and care.
Addressing the gathering, experts from the Department of Gastroenterology highlighted the importance of collective efforts in eliminating hepatitis and reducing the burden of liver diseases. Director of the Department of Gastroenterology, Prof. (Dr.) Chittaranjan Panda, along with Senior Consultants Dr. Subash Chandra Samal, Dr. Bijay Mishra and Dr. Ananta Agasti, emphasised the need for regular screening, timely treatment, vaccination and healthy lifestyle practices to protect liver health.
The specialists urged people to prioritise early detection, stating that prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly reduce complications associated with hepatitis. They also encouraged the public to adopt preventive measures and spread awareness within the community.
The speakers reiterated the message that collective action is essential to eliminate hepatitis and highlighted the slogan, “Prevent Hepatitis, Protect Your Liver, Protect Your Life.”
The programme also marked the significance of World Hepatitis Day, observed annually on July 28 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Nobel laureate Dr. Baruch Blumberg, who discovered the Hepatitis B virus and developed the first Hepatitis B vaccine.
Prof. (Dr.) S. P. Singh attended the event as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries present included Dr. Pragyan Ranjan Ghadei, Managing Director; B. K. Subodh Singh, Chief Executive Officer; Prof. (Dr.) P. K. Das, Dean Academics; and Dr. Bishnu Prasad Nanda, Vice President. They reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to strengthening public awareness, preventive healthcare and quality treatment for liver diseases.
The event was also attended by Sri Sailendra Kumar Panda, Director, Sri Saikh Sikandar Ali, General Manager – Projects & Maintenance, senior doctors, consultants, nursing professionals, hospital staff and students.
The observance concluded with a prize distribution ceremony recognising participants in awareness activities, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony. Utkal Hospital reiterated its commitment to supporting the global goal of eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat through awareness, prevention and accessible healthcare.
