City-based GEM Hospital today launched an App and a 24-hour helpline for liver-related issues.

‘Save Liver for Safe Life’ is an initiative of the hospital, in association with Rotary International, to spread awareness about safe practises to keep the liver healthy.

The liver App was inaugurated by Superintendent of Police R.V. Ramya Bharathi and the helpline by district director of Rotary International Prakash Angappan at the hospital.

In his speech, hospital chairman Dr. C. Palanivelu stressed the importance of creating awareness among the public with regards to liver safety. More than 75 per cent liver problems are related to alcohol, viral hepatitis and fatty liver that can be easily prevented, he said and added that if chronic liver problem was not diagnosed and treated properly one may develop cirrhosis. “Eighty per cent of whom develop caner,” Palanivelu said.

The App (save liver safe life) and helpline (9600953999) would educate and provide guidance and treatment for all liver problems, including emergency situation.

To mark the World Hepatitis Day that is being celebrated today, the hospital is also conducting a week-long free Hepatitis B vaccination camp, screening for Hepatitis B and C virus along with fibro scan that detects liver damage due to alcohol and hepatitis, Palanivelu said.