Rise of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in India

A Growing Health Concern

India

healthysoch

Mumbai/New Delhi, April 21, 2025 :

World Liver Day is observed every year on April 19 to spread awareness about liver health, encourage preventive steps, and promote early diagnosis and management of liver diseases. On the occasion of World Liver Day 2025, healthcare experts are highlighting the crucial role of diet in maintaining liver health. This year’s theme, “Food is Medicine,” underscores the power of nutrition in preventing liver disease and supporting the liver’s essential functions.

The campaign aims to raise awareness about how a balanced, nutritious diet can be a game changer in protecting liver health. It encourages individuals to adopt healthier eating habits to prevent conditions such as fatty liver, hepatitis, and other chronic liver disorders.
Commenting on the theme, Dr. Siddhesh Rane, Gastroenterologist at Apex Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, said: “Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is on the rise in India, emerging as one of the most common liver disorders in the country. Driven by sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, obesity, and metabolic conditions like diabetes, NAFLD now affects an increasing number of people—even those who do not consume alcohol. This silent condition often goes undetected until it progresses to more severe liver damage, highlighting the urgent need for early screening, public awareness, and preventive health measures focused on nutrition and lifestyle.

The liver is one of the most vital organs in the human body. It plays a central role in metabolism, digestion, immunity, and detoxification. Despite its remarkable ability to regenerate, liver diseases continue to be a major global health concern. World Liver Day serves as a reminder of the importance of early detection, timely treatment, and preventive care. Liver diseases are often asymptomatic in the early stages and are typically diagnosed only when the damage has progressed significantly.

Dr. Siddhesh Rane, Gastroenterologist at Apex Group of Hospitals emphasized that lifestyle choices play a critical role in liver health and he further added, “Adopting a balanced diet, avoiding excessive alcohol, reducing sugar and processed food intake, and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly lower the risk of liver-related conditions. The day aims to encourage people to adopt a healthier lifestyle and diet to support liver function and prevent liver disease. Key measures include getting adequate sleep, managing stress through mindfulness, maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco. These habits play a crucial role in keeping the liver healthy and functioning efficiently.