Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 20: As World Liver Day was observed on April 19, health experts have raised alarm over the growing prevalence of fatty liver disease among young adults in India. Dr. Shiv Kumar Sarin, Director of the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS), emphasized the importance of maintaining liver health, particularly in the morning hours, and highlighted the need for a collective effort to ensure the liver remains in optimal condition.
"I wish liver day was celebrated every day. We should focus on liver health as soon as we wake up. A healthy liver leads to a longer life, and if we all take care of it, India will become a healthier nation," Dr. Sarin stated. He also advocated for organ donation, calling the liver the "most precious organ" and urged people to consider donating it to help others in need.
Recent data from Mahajan Imaging & Labs has revealed a concerning trend: 35% of young adults under the age of 45 who underwent ultrasound scans in the last six months were diagnosed with fatty liver. Experts attribute this alarming rise to sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary habits, and heightened stress levels that are negatively impacting liver health, particularly among younger and middle-aged individuals.
Fatty liver, or hepatic steatosis, occurs when excess fat accumulates in the liver. Though it often does not present noticeable symptoms in its early stages, if left untreated, it can lead to severe conditions such as liver inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and potentially liver cancer. Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease globally, affecting about 32.4% of the population. The condition's prevalence has risen sharply, from 26% in 2005 to 38% in recent years, with projections indicating it could reach 55.4% by 2040.
What makes fatty liver disease particularly dangerous is its silent progression. Most individuals are unaware of their condition until it reaches an advanced stage. Dr. Harsh Mahajan, Founder and Chairman of Mahajan Imaging & Labs, urged people to be vigilant about their liver health. "Fatty liver often develops without noticeable symptoms. However, persistent fatigue, unexplained weight gain, abdominal discomfort, or elevated liver enzymes during routine blood tests could signal underlying issues," he said.
Dr. Mahajan stressed the importance of early detection through regular liver function tests (LFT) and abdominal ultrasounds, especially for those with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, or a sedentary lifestyle. Timely intervention and lifestyle changes are crucial in reversing the trend and preventing further complications.
With the rise in fatty liver cases, experts are calling for increased awareness, regular screening, and better lifestyle choices to protect liver health and prevent the progression of this silent disease.