The digestive system plays a crucial role in overall health, affecting nutrient absorption, immunity, and well-being. In Dhaka, digestive issues are common due to dietary habits, stress, water quality, and infections.
Common problems include acid reflux, gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fatty liver disease (often linked to rising obesity and diabetes), hepatitis (B and C prevalent in Bangladesh), ulcers, chronic diarrhea/constipation, and colorectal issues. Liver diseases like non-alcoholic fatty liver and hepatitis are particularly widespread.
Choosing the right gastroenterologist ensures accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and prevention of complications through procedures like endoscopy. Early intervention improves outcomes and quality of life.
What Does a Gastroenterologist Treat?
Gastroenterologists specialize in the digestive tract and related organs.
Common conditions:
- Acid reflux and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), causing heartburn and regurgitation.
- Gastritis and peptic ulcers, often from H. pylori or NSAIDs.
- IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), leading to abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits.
- Liver diseases, including fatty liver, viral hepatitis (B/C), cirrhosis, and jaundice.
- Pancreatic disorders like pancreatitis or cysts.
- Colon and rectal problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), polyps, or colorectal cancer screening.
- Procedures: Upper GI endoscopy (for esophagus/stomach), colonoscopy (for colon), ERCP, and biopsies.
These specialists use advanced diagnostics for precise care.
Best Gastroenterologists in Dhaka
Dhaka has skilled gastroenterologists in private and government sectors. Here are some leading ones based on qualifications, experience, and reputation (note: “best” varies; consult reviews and needs).
Prof. Dr. Swapan Kumar Sarkar
- Qualifications: MBBS, FCPS (Medicine), MD (Gastroenterology).
- Specialization: Gastrointestinal and liver diseases, interventional endoscopy.
- Experience: Extensive, professor-level.
- Chamber: Often affiliated with major hospitals like LABAID or similar; check current visiting hours (typically evenings).
Prof. Dr. Md. Golam Kibria
- Qualifications: Advanced degrees in gastroenterology.
- Expertise: Diagnostic/therapeutic endoscopy, liver issues.
- Hospital: United Hospital Limited.
- Consultation: Regular schedules; known for expertise in complex cases.
Prof. Dr. Md. Samsul Arfin
- Qualifications: MBBS, FCPS (Medicine), specialist training.
- Specialization: Gastrointestinal, liver, pancreatic diseases; interventional procedures.
- Hospital: Bangladesh Specialized Hospital or similar.
- Experience: Professor/consultant level.
Dr. Bahar Hussain
- Qualifications: Experienced in gastroenterology.
- Expertise: Stomach, intestine, liver disorders.
- Affiliation: Various private setups.
Prof. Dr. Mian Mashhud Ahmad
- Qualifications: Professor in gastroenterology.
- Specialization: Gastrointestinal and liver diseases.
- Hospital: LABAID Specialized Hospital.
Prof. Dr. Md. Masudur Rahman
- Qualifications: MBBS (DMC), FCPS (Medicine), MD (Gastroenterology), FACP, FACG, FRCP.
- Expertise: Advanced care in GI and liver.
- Hospital: Bangladesh Specialized Hospital.
For liver focus, consider Prof. Dr. Mamun Al Mahtab Shwapnil (hepatology expert) or similar specialists.
Always verify current chambers via hospital websites or directories like doctorbangladesh.com.
Top Hospitals & Clinics for Gastroenterology in Dhaka
Dhaka’s private hospitals offer advanced facilities like high-resolution endoscopy, ERCP, and liver clinics.
- Evercare Hospital Dhaka: JCI-accredited; advanced gastroenterology/hepatology, capsule endoscopy, expert consultants. Top for complex liver/digestive care.
- Square Hospital: Renowned for gastroenterology, modern equipment, experienced specialists.
- United Hospital Limited: Strong gastroenterology department with Prof. Dr. Md. Golam Kibria; therapeutic procedures.
- Ibn Sina Specialized Hospital: Affordable, multiple gastroenterologists; good for routine and specialized care.
- Government options: Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) or Dhaka Medical College Hospital; excellent for hepatitis/liver but longer waits.
Other notables: LABAID, BRB Hospitals (specialized gastro center), Bangladesh Specialized Hospital.
Symptoms That Require Visiting a Gastroenterologist
Seek immediate care for:
- Persistent stomach/abdominal pain lasting weeks.
- Chronic diarrhea, constipation, or alternating patterns.
- Blood in stool (bright red or black/tarry).
- Severe acidity, heartburn, or regurgitation not relieved by antacids.
- Unexplained weight loss or appetite changes.
- Jaundice (yellow skin/eyes), dark urine, or fatigue indicating liver issues.
Other red flags: Difficulty swallowing, vomiting blood, or family history of GI cancers.
Cost of Consultation & Procedures in Dhaka
Costs vary by hospital (private higher than government) and 2026 estimates.
- Average consultation fee: 800–2,000 BDT in private hospitals (professors higher, 1,000–3,000 BDT).
- Endoscopy (upper GI): 2,500–5,000 BDT (e.g., 4,500 BDT at some; lower without sedation).
- Colonoscopy: 5,000–12,000 BDT (full ~9,000–12,000 BDT; with polypectomy higher).
- Government hospitals: Much lower (e.g., endoscopy ~1,300–4,000 BDT), but waits longer.
Private vs. government: Private offers faster service, better comfort, advanced tech; government affordable but crowded.
How to Choose the Best Gastroenterologist in Dhaka
- Check qualifications (MD/FCPS in Gastroenterology) and board certification.
- Experience with your condition (e.g., liver specialist for hepatitis).
- Hospital facilities: Modern endoscopy suites, imaging, labs.
- Patient reviews: From sites like HeliumDoc or forums (success rates, bedside manner).
- Recommendations: From primary doctors or trusted sources.
Consider location, availability, and language comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the best gastroenterologist in Dhaka? No single “best,” but top-rated include Prof. Dr. Swapan Kumar Sarkar, Prof. Dr. Md. Golam Kibria, and Prof. Dr. Md. Samsul Arfin based on expertise and affiliations.
What is the consultation fee in Dhaka? Typically 800–3,000 BDT in private; lower in government.
Which hospital is best for liver treatment? Evercare Hospital Dhaka or United Hospital for advanced care; LABAID/BSMMU for hepatology.
When should I see a gastroenterologist? For persistent symptoms like chronic pain, bleeding, jaundice, or unexplained weight loss—don’t delay.
Conclusion
Dhaka offers excellent gastroenterology care through specialists like Prof. Dr. Swapan Kumar Sarkar, Prof. Dr. Md. Golam Kibria, and others at top hospitals such as Evercare, Square, United, and Ibn Sina. Prioritize qualified experts with modern facilities.
Digestive health is vital—early diagnosis prevents severe issues like liver failure or cancer. Adopt healthy habits (balanced diet, hydration, exercise) and consult promptly for symptoms. Your health deserves expert attention—schedule a visit today for better well-being.
