By Blessing Odega
The Society for Gastroenterology and Hepatology in Nigeria (SOGHIN), says its 2024 scientific conference its geared towards the advancement of gastrointestinal health and hepatology care in Nigeria.
Prof. Jesse Otegbayo, the SOGHIN president, said this on Thursday in Jos, at the official opening ceremony of the conference.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that Gastroenteritis is the inflammation and irritation of the stomach, often as a result of a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection, or by ingesting toxic chemicals.
NAN further reports that Hepatology is the branch of medicine that deals with the study, diagnosis, treatment and management of disorders related to the organs in the biliary tract such as; the liver gallbladder and pancreas.
Otegbayo, said the theme of the two days scientific conference and Annual General Meeting entitled; “Global insights, Local impact: Advancing Gastrointestinal Health in Nigeria,” showed the society’s commitment towards addressing pressing issues in the field of gastroenterology and hepatology.
The President, revealed that the conference would provide an avenue for stimulating discussions where cutting edge researches would be shared.
Otegbayo, said the participants were expected to learn from each others’ experiences in diverse areas such as; the application of artificial intelligence, immunotherapy in gastrointestinal malignancies, the upscaling and implementation of viral hepatitis care and the standardisation of endoscopy practice in Nigeria.
He further said that the aftermath of the conference would translate to improved patients’ care, as the doctors would inturn apply the knowledge gained towards better care for their patients.
Similarly, the chairman, Local Organising Committee of the conference, Prof. Edith Okeke, said the conference provided a unique platform to bridge the gap between global knowledge and its practical application at the local level.
Okeke, said the vibrant exchange of ideas during the conference would have a tangible impact on the local communities.
Dr Pokop Bupwatda, the Chief Medical Director (CMD), Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), in his good will message, said gastrointestinal and liver diseases were conditions of substantial public health burden globally.
According to Bupwatda, the diseases must be given the needed attention to curb the morbidity and mortality associated with them.
He called on government at all levels to invest in the prevention of gastrointestinal diseases, in order to enhance gastrointestinal related illnesses.
The chief host, Gov. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, said the government was committed to improving the health indices of the state.
Mutfwang, who was represented by the CMD of Plateau Specialist Hospital, Prof. Christopher Yilgwam, called on the citizens to collaborate with the state.
NAN reports that the event commenced with a two-day pre conference update course, while the programme, which commenced on Thursday, will end on Friday. NAN
