Gastrointestinal diseases are on the rise in South India, warn experts

Gastrointestinal (GI) diseases are witnessing a sharp increase in South India, particularly among the younger population, experts warned at the two-day international conference and live workshop YGCON-2025 organised by Yashoda Hospitals, Secunderabad on Saturday (November 1).

Gastrointestinal (GI) diseases are conditions that affect the digestive tract, which includes the oesophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, rectum and anus.

Senior gastroenterologist Dr. Ravi Shankar, highlighted the growing burden of GI ailments in India. “Gastrointestinal disease is one of the fastest-growing health problems in the country, and the trend is particularly alarming among the youth. Studies indicate that seven out of ten Indians suffer from some form of gastric problem. This conference is designed to familiarise young doctors with accurate diagnostic methods and treatment options through live demonstrations and expert discussions,” he said.

The two-day event was inaugurated by Pavan Gorukanti, Director, Yashoda Group of Hospitals which brought together over 500 gastroenterologists and medical professionals from across the world to discuss the latest advancements in interventional endoscopic ultrasound and advanced endoscopy procedures.

“This international conference and live workshop will focus on the latest advances in gastrointestinal medicine, including live demonstrations. Hands-on training sessions are also being conducted for young gastroenterologists to improve their endoscopic skills,” said Pavan Gorukanti.