'Piles to Smiles' Campaign Launched

EHM News Bureau - Mumbai

Pioneers' Circle, consisting of leading GI surgeons spearheading MIPH (Minimally Invasive Procedure for Hemorrhoids), in association with The Association of Colon and Rectal Surgeons of India (ACRSI), recently launched "Piles to Smiles", a nationwide campaign which will organise seminars, public awareness lectures, CMEs for doctors and free screening camps at 200 hospitals across the country.

The associations also announced and dedicated 20th November as the World Piles Day. Said Dr Parvez Sheikh, Hon Secretary, ACRSI, "A large number of patients think piles is a problem to be controlled by diet and therefore suffer for years by compromising on lifestyle, whereas many advanced techniques are available to provide permanent solution for piles without recurrence, minimal discomfort to patients and quick recovery times. The treatment of large piles has traditionally been open surgery, which is painful and has deterred most people from visiting surgeons."

Dr H G Doctor, Senior Member of ACRSI, said, "Piles (haemorrhoid) is a very common problem as almost 50 per cent of the population between 30-69 years of age is estimated to have suffered from piles or hemorrhoids during their lifetime. Although advanced and patient friendly treatment methods like MIPH or stapler treatment are now available, lack of awareness and a compelling need for confidentiality prevent patients from discussing this problem freely with their doctors and seeking right solutions."

According to Dr Roy Patankar, founder member of Pioneers' Circle and a laparoscopic and colorectal surgeon at Wockhardt Hospital, the solution is two pronged. "Firstly, the patients suffering from anal disorders should insist for endoscopy examination from physicians and surgeons for proper diagnosis. Secondly, ask physicians and surgeons for advanced and patient friendly treatment options," he added.