I am Dr Ioannis Gkikas, a Consultant in Gastroenterology with a keen interest in liver disease and advanced endoscopy, including ERCP. I completed my medical education at the University of Athens in Greece before making the move to the UK back in 2012.
In 2016, I was honoured to take on the role of Clinical Lead for Lancashire and South Cumbria Operational Delivery Network Hepatitis C (ODN) as part of the national endeavour to eliminate hepatitis C from England. Over the past seven years, it's been incredibly rewarding to witness the progress we have made in treating hepatitis C, both on a national scale and within our local community.
I am proud of the significant number of patients we have been able to cure, bringing us closer than ever to achieving the elimination of this infection. Each person cured represents a step forward in preventing the devastating consequences of hepatitis C, such as end-stage cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and ultimately, deaths from chronic liver disease.
The journey to this point has been marked by the hard work and passion of all the colleagues involved in this project, and it has been truly inspiring to be part of it. It is a privilege to contribute to a healthcare initiative that not only improves lives but also saves them, with the ultimate goal of eradicating a disease from our communities and beyond.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of this journey, and I look forward to continuing our efforts to make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by hepatitis C.