Cipla and INASL Collaborate to Combat Hepatitis in India

Cipla Limited has announced a partnership with the Indian National Association for the Study of the Liver (INASL) to enhance efforts in tackling Hepatitis B in India through an initiative titled Mission Defeat Hepatitis. This alliance aims to improve early diagnosis and increase awareness of the disease, which remains a significant public health challenge in the country. Despite advancements in medical technology and therapy, approximately 12% of the global Hepatitis B burden is concentrated in India, with an estimated 40 million people living with chronic Hepatitis B infection. Alarmingly, only about 3% of these individuals are diagnosed, and less than 1% receive the necessary treatment, leaving a large portion of the population unaware of their condition and at risk for serious liver complications.

This initiative coincides with the observance of World Hepatitis Day, during which more than 5,000 physicians across India have come together to support 150,000 screenings for Hepatitis B. The effort aims to culminate in a broader target of 250,000 screenings through organised camps nationwide. One of the notable installations unveiled during the campaign is the World’s Largest Liver Model, constructed from Hepatitis B antigen test kit covers, intended to visually emphasise the importance of timely screening and diagnosis.

Dr. Jaideep Gogtay, Chief Medical Officer at Cipla Limited, stated, "Hepatitis B remains one of the under-diagnosed public health challenges in India. While effective therapies are available, millions continue to live with the infection without knowing their status. We believe awareness and early diagnosis are the first steps towards changing this reality."

Furthermore, Professor Dr. Ajay Duseja, Secretary General of INASL, commented on the collaborative efforts, saying, "Early diagnosis remains one of the most effective interventions in Hepatitis B management. This initiative provides an opportunity for healthcare professionals to work together towards increasing awareness and encouraging screening."

Healthcare professionals involved highlighted that early diagnosis is crucial for effective management of Hepatitis B, as it allows for timely intervention, which can substantially lower the risk of developing severe liver diseases. The collaborative effort seeks to connect patients to appropriate care and promote extensive screening across various communities.

Dr. Bipin Chevale, CEO of Gleneagles Hospital, reiterated the importance of early action in preventing severe complications. He stated, "Hepatitis B continues to be one of the underdiagnosed liver diseases in India, despite being preventable and treatable. Our involvement in this initiative signifies our commitment to increasing awareness and access to timely screenings."

Through these initiatives, Cipla and INASL are striving to make significant strides towards reducing the impact of Hepatitis B in India, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes and quality of care.