WGO Divisions - Hepatology
Hepatology's role in global gastroenterology has become increasingly important with the recognition that most liver diseases, especially viral hepatitis, hepatocellular carcinoma and cirrhosis (and its complications such as portal hypertension) are particularly prevalent in those areas of the world where medical care is less well developed. In response to this the WGO initiated the following:
- Featuring "Viral Hepatitis" as the theme for World Digestive Health Day 2007 with a new HBV Guideline, a white paper, PR articles, WGN commentaries and other activities
- Incorporating sessions concerning the impact of viral hepatitis on heptocellular carcinoma, cirrhosis and portal hypertension in the WGO Training Centres. About 400 million people are chronically infected with Hepatitis B and about 200 million with Hepatitis C. These issues are given special emphasis in training centres where these disorders are most prevalent
- Highlighting educational and teaching methodology of hepatology in the Train the Trainers Program
- Adding a new Hepatitis B Global Guideline in 2007 to the six WGO Hepatology Global Guidelines already available in six (6) languages and adapted for countries with limited medical resources and expertise
- Co-operating with IDCA to include the relevance of hepatitis screening and treatment for the prevention of HCC in their programs
- Preparing a plan for an advanced training centre in hepatology
