One third Indians have non-alcoholic fatty liver and it affects children as well: AIIMS study

According to a recent study conducted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is on the rise in India, affecting a substantial proportion of the population. The study revealed that approximately one-third of Indians are afflicted by this condition, including a concerning number of children.

NAFLD is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver, unrelated to excessive alcohol consumption. Factors contributing to its development include sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary choices, obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome.

The study found that 38% of Indians have been diagnosed with NAFLD. This alarming statistic emphasizes the growing health concern posed by the disease. Experts have long warned that India's rapid urbanization, coupled with lifestyle changes, is likely to result in a surge of non-communicable diseases, with NAFLD being a significant contributor.

Perhaps more distressing is the impact of NAFLD on the younger generation. The AIIMS study revealed that children are also affected by this condition. The changing dietary patterns and sedentary lifestyles prevalent among Indian youth have contributed to this unfortunate trend.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, if left untreated, can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which is characterized by inflammation and liver cell damage. If not managed effectively, NASH can lead to more severe liver complications, including cirrhosis, liver failure, and an increased risk of liver cancer.

The findings of the AIIMS study underscore the urgency of public health interventions to tackle NAFLD in India. Initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles, regular exercise, and nutritious diets are essential in preventing and managing this condition. Moreover, the study's results emphasize the need for routine health screenings to identify NAFLD in its early stages, enabling timely interventions and lifestyle modifications.

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