Film to create awareness on hepatitis-C released

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, July 28

A special documentary on hepatitis C was released at SSSS School in presence of Deputy Commissioner (DC) Varun Roojam and medical experts here today.

The film made for spreading awareness regarding “The Silent Killer - Hepatitis C” was screened to mark the World Hepatitis Day. It was followed by a seminar on different aspects of the disease.

Hepatitis-C is considered one of the menacingly growing diseases, which claims more lives than HIV/AIDS every year across the globe. If not diagnosed and treated at the right time, it can also lead to liver cirrhosis or cancer.

The film, shot by GI Rendevous in collaboration with the state government, focused on the early diagnosis, precautions and treatment along with general awareness regarding the disease.

While addressing the gathering at the screening, DC Varun Roojam said, “Awareness and knowledge is the key towards fighting the disease. One has to know everything about the disease in order to encourage its prevention.”

The DC said medicines were being administered free of cost to needy patients. The state government was also going to set up Chief Minister hepatitis C relief fund to aid in treatment cost, he added.

Dr Gurbilas Pannu said “Just like HIV/AIDS, hepatitis-C also spreads through infected blood transfusion or unsterilised syringes. It does not spread through physical contact and drinking water. But, prevention through knowledge is the key here.”

Dr HP Singh along with Dr Amitabh Jerath were also present on the occasion.