In the realm of gastroenterology, the field of therapeutic endoscopy stands as a beacon of hope for patients facing a myriad of gastrointestinal ailments. Dr. Philip Augustine, a distinguished figure in the medical community, has been at the forefront of pioneering advancements in this crucial area of medical practice. Through his relentless dedication and innovative spirit, Dr. Augustine has transformed therapeutic endoscopy, revolutionizing patient care and setting new standards in the field.

I could concentrate on clinical research pertinent to the problems of Kerala. Tropical Pancreatitis, the enigmatic disease with the highest world incidence in Kerala is one of the key area of our research. We already have several publications in the surgical aspects and cancer risk of this disease. I was fortunate to attract the attention of Prof. Henri Sarles of Marseilles, France who sent a team to study this problem in comparison with the alcoholic pancreatitis of Europe. A landmark publication resulted in 1994 in the “Digestive Diseases and Sciences”. We also reported in 1992 in the “American Journal of Gastroenterology” the increased risk of cancer of pancreas in patients with tropical pancreatitis. We are now concentrating on the genetic aspects of this disease to see if an aetiology can be found.
A few publications also have resulted in the field of therapeutic endoscopy, portal hypertension and other liver diseases. A molecular laboratory is almost nearing completion in Lakeshore which should give a fillip to our basic research programmes. We also work in collaboration with the Cochin University of Science & Technology (CUSAT) in research activities especially in Biotechnology. I was a member of the faculty of Medicine at CUSAT. I also function as the Vice President of the Biotechnology Society of India. I am also the Managing Trustee of the Lakeshore Medical Research Foundation, which runs the Lakeshore Medical Library and organizes other research programmes of the institution.