HOMS holds free hepatitis B and C screening day
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According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hepatitis is among the viral infections with the greatest impact on mortality worldwide.
Santiago. – The Hospital Metropolitano de Santiago (HOMS), through the Hepatology Unit of its Digestive Studies Centre, held a successful hepatitis B and C screening day to promote prevention and early diagnosis of this disease, which is a significant threat to global public health.
The Hepatology Unit is directed by Dr. Christie Perelló and is part of the HOMS Digestive Studies Centre, headed by Dr. Brígida Navarro.
“Our mission with this screening day has been to offer the community the opportunity to have essential tests free of charge. Early detection of hepatitis B and C is crucial to prevent serious complications and improve the quality of life of those affected,” said Dr. Navarro.
Dr. Perelló warned that hepatitis is a disease caused by a virus and is responsible for high levels of mortality worldwide.
“Liver health is fundamental to the body’s wellbeing. Hepatitis B and C are infections that can lead to fibrosis (scarring) of the liver and result in complications that can even be serious. Through this free screening day, we seek not only to make early detection easier to access but also to educate the public about the importance of maintaining optimal liver health. It is essential that people inform themselves and take preventive measures to improve their liver health and avoid long-term complications that can be prevented with antiviral treatment,” she said.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hepatitis has become one of the deadliest infectious diseases worldwide, underlining the urgent need for effective action to change the course of the global response towards the commitment to eliminate it by 2030.
The initiative reaffirmed the commitment of the HOMS Digestive Studies Centre to keep providing quality health services and promoting the prevention and early diagnosis that are key to fighting this disease, an important step in raising public awareness.
The screening day took place at the hospital, where around 285 free tests were carried out. It was also supported by the Gilead laboratory, which donated the tests used.
About HOMS
HOMS is a pioneer in robotic surgery in the Dominican Republic and holds international accreditation from Accreditation Canada (ACI) as a guarantee of safety and quality of care, positioning it as the leader in health tourism in the north of the country.