Dhaka:A seminar focusing on 'Bepirovirsen', a medicine used for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (CHB) infection, was held at Bangladesh Medical University (BMU). The event highlighted new treatment approaches for hepatitis B and was organized by the BMU Hepatology Department in the lecture hall of the Super Specialised Hospital on campus.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the seminar also marked the second death anniversary of renowned liver specialist Professor Dr. Mobin Khan. BMU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. FM Siddiqui attended as the chief guest, with Hepatology Department Chairman Professor Dr. Md Shahinul Alam presiding over the event.
During the seminar, Prof. Siddiqui reminisced about Prof. Mobin, his former teacher, who inspired him to pursue the FCPS degree. He shared memories of their interactions during his internship at IPGMR in 1983 and highlighted Prof. Mobin's efforts to establish the Hepatology Department at IPGMR.
Prof. Siddiqui expressed optimism about the potential of new drugs like Bepirovirsen, which show promise for an effective cure for hepatitis B. He emphasized the advancements in medical science that have turned what once seemed impossible into a real possibility.
Prof. Shahinul Alam reiterated the department's commitment to liver disease research, noting that the seminar is part of continuing efforts to innovate treatment protocols and reduce costs for patients.
The seminar featured presentations from BMU Department of Hepatology Associate Professor Dr. SKM Nazmul Hasan, who discussed the potential of Bepirovirsen in silencing HBV and unlocking a cure, and Dr. Md Farhad Hossain, who presented on the "Functional Cure Trial Bepirovirsen versus Pegylated Interferon". The event was moderated by Associate Professor Dr. Md Saiful Islam Elin, who also presented a documentary on Prof. Dr. Mobin Khan's professional life.
Specialist physicians from various medical colleges participated in discussions during the seminar, contributing to the exploration of new treatment strategies for hepatitis B.