Why Gastrointestinal Diseases Are Common Among People from Eastern and Central India: A Real Observation from AIG Hospital
During my visits to AIG Hospital, Hyderabad, I noticed an interesting pattern — a large number of patients suffering from gastrointestinal (GI) diseases came from West Bengal, Bangladesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh, north belt area.
This observation made me think deeply: why are people from these regions more affected by liver, stomach, and digestive system problems? After some careful understanding and discussions, I realized there are several strong reasons behind it — and most of them are preventable.
🌊 1. Unsafe Water and Poor Sanitation
In many parts of these regions, clean drinking water is still a challenge. During monsoon seasons, water often gets mixed with sewage or industrial waste.
As a result, bacteria and parasites spread easily, leading to:
- Typhoid
- Amoebiasis
- Giardiasis
- Hepatitis A & E
Repeated infections like these silently damage the liver and intestines, which later turn into serious diseases.
✔️ Prevention Tip:
Always drink boiled or filtered water, especially when traveling. Avoid eating food washed in untreated water.
🍲 2. Unhygienic and Spicy Food Habits
People from Bengal, Bihar, and nearby regions love spicy, oily food and street snacks. However, when food is prepared or stored in unhygienic conditions, it becomes a direct source of infection.
Over time, this leads to gastritis, ulcers, and acid reflux.
✔️ Prevention Tip:
Prefer home-cooked, light meals. Reduce oily and spicy food. Make sure to wash hands and utensils properly before cooking.
🧬 3. Lifestyle and Addiction Factors
High rates of tobacco chewing, smoking, and alcohol consumption in some communities increase the risk of:
- Gastric ulcers
- Pancreatitis
- Liver damage
- Even GI cancers
✔️ Prevention Tip:
Avoid alcohol and tobacco in all forms. Regular detoxification and a balanced diet can keep your liver healthy.
🩺 4. Lack of Early Diagnosis
In rural and small-town areas, people often ignore early symptoms like:
- Indigestion
- Acidity
- Bloating
- Mild jaundice
By the time they consult specialists in big hospitals like AIG, the disease may already be in an advanced stage.
✔️ Prevention Tip:
Never ignore digestive issues. Get your LFT (Liver Function Test) and Ultrasound done regularly if you feel discomfort or have a history of liver problems.
🧫 5. Hepatitis – A Silent Threat
Hepatitis B and E are more common in these populations due to unsafe water, blood exposure, or lack of vaccination. These viruses silently harm the liver for years.
✔️ Prevention Tip:
Take the Hepatitis B vaccine and ensure safe food and water hygiene. Avoid using shared needles or unsterile medical tools.
💡 A Small Change Can Save Many Lives
Most GI diseases are preventable. What we need is awareness, clean habits, and timely medical attention.
Hospitals like AIG are doing great work in treating such patients, but prevention should always come first.
Let’s spread awareness — clean water, safe food, and healthy habits can protect millions from liver and stomach diseases.
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