India is facing a rapidly growing health crisis—non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Once thought to affect only the overweight or older adults, NAFLD is now increasingly seen in young adults and even lean individuals. Dr. Shiv Kumar Sarin, a leading hepatologist, highlights that fatty liver is more than a liver issue; it is closely linked to diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and early dementia.
Large community studies, including a survey of over 6,700 people in Delhi, revealed that 56% had fatty liver, with 11% of lean individuals affected. Simple markers like waist circumference, persistent high SGPT levels, or darkened skin around the neck can help identify risks early.
The disease progresses in stages, from fat accumulation to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and eventually liver cancer, but reversal is possible. Even a 10% weight loss can begin to reverse fibrosis. Dr. Sarin recommends maintaining ideal weight, exercising daily, controlling sugar intake, eating smartly, timing meals, and prioritizing sleep.
Early prevention in children is critical, as parental obesity greatly increases the risk of childhood fatty liver. Dr. Sarin emphasizes that lifestyle diseases are preventable: “Own your body. Health cannot be bought; it has to be earned.” With proactive measures, this silent epidemic can be halted and even reversed.
