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In observance of ‘World Hepatitis Day’, GEM Hospital - Asia’s first dedicated tertiary health care centre in Gastroenterology and Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery, has launched a Free Liver Health Screening Camp exclusively for Police personnel and announces LIV 24/7 on Call – around the clock Liver care support for general public in the city. The initiative was formally inaugurated today by Thiru. Pakerla Cephas Kalyan, IPS, Joint Commissioner of Police, South Zone – Greater Chennai Police. The screening camp from 28th July will offer complimentary liver health checks, consultations, and guidance on liver disease prevention and management. This campaign is part of the hospital’s mission to raise awareness and promote early diagnosis in high-stress frontline professions like policing. Dr. C. Palanivelu, Chairman, GEM Hospital said, “We salute the tireless service of our police force, and this initiative is our small way of giving back. Liver disease often goes undetected until advanced stages. With timely screening, we can make a real difference. The WHO announced theme for 2025 – ‘Let’s Break It Down’ emphasizes the need to simplify, scale up, and integrate hepatitis services – vaccination, safe injection practices, harm reduction and especially testing and treatment into national health systems.” “The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 304 million people globally live with hepatitis B and C in 2022, yet only 10% of them are aware of their infection status. This alarming gap makes proactive screening initiatives like this not only timely but absolutely vital. Our LIV 24/7 service ensures continuous expert support for those in need”, added Dr. C. Palanivelu. Speaking about this initiative, Dr. S.Asokan, CEO, GEM Hospital said, “We are committed to advancing liver health for all. Police officers are often exposed to irregular routines, high stress, and limited access to preventive care—all risk factors for liver disease. At the camp, we provide free Fibroscan - a specialised ultrasound machine which measures fibrosis (scarring) and Steatosis (fatty change) in the liver, BC Virus test, Liver function test, consultation with hepatologist, diet and lifestyle tips”. “We are seeing a steady rise in NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) even among young, seemingly fit individuals. Regular screening and early intervention are key. Through this camp, we aim to build awareness and promote proactive liver health management”, noted Dr. P.Senthilnathan, Director, GEM Hospital Chennai. He further added, “The WHO has highlighted the urgent need for eliminating hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030, calling for enhanced awareness, testing, and treatment. In India alone, it is estimated that 40 million people are chronically infected with Hepatitis B and 6 to 12 million with Hepatitis C.” Speaking at the event, Mr. Pakerla Cephas Kalyan, IPS remarked, “Our force works round the clock to keep the city safe, and this thoughtful initiative reinforces that their health matters too. I thank GEM Hospital for this proactive and generous step toward supporting our personnel.” GEM hospital encourages all police personnel to utilize the free camp and consult the on- site expert hepatology team that includes Dr. P.Senthilnathan, Surgical Gastroenterologist, Dr. Vinoth Kumar, Medical Gastroenterologist and Dr. Magnus Jayaraj, Transplant Surgeon. Screening includes liver function tests, fibrosis scans, hepatitis B and C testing, and personalised health counselling.

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GEM Hospital announces Exclusive Free Liver Health Screening for Police Personnel to Mark ‘World Hepatitis Day’