Docs Say Non-Alcoholic Sick Liver Cases on Rise
Non-alcoholic liver diseases on the rise, warn doctors
HYDERABAD: Doctors highlighted a significant shift in liver disease trends, noting that non-alcoholic conditions are now rising faster than alcohol-related liver damage, ahead of World Liver Day, April 19.
Doctors also pointed to recent advancements in treatment, stating that new drugs are offering hope for patients. While semaglutide is available in India, resmetirom has received US FDA approval and is being accessed in India under special provisions. However, they cautioned that these medications should only be used under medical supervision.
“It is not about fat or thin people, but whether you are physically active. Daily exercise is key. We are seeing a growing number of non-alcoholic fatty liver cases, including among women,” said Dr Mithun Sharma, hepatologist, AIG Hospitals.
He added that lifestyle changes remain the most effective solution. At least 35 to 45 minutes of exercise is essential, along with avoiding excess carbohydrates and sugars. Young people must be careful with artificial drinks, which contain high fructose corn syrup and are more harmful than regular sugar.
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is emerging as a major concern, affecting nearly one-third of the global population. The condition is increasingly seen among women and younger individuals due to sedentary lifestyles, poor diet, and lack of exercise, said Dr A.V. Krishna Chaitanya, liver transplant specialist.
Highlighting the growing burden, Dr V.R. Sumanth Kumar, consultant gastroenterologist, said, “MASLD is increasing rapidly due to lifestyle changes and often remains silent until it becomes severe. In India, a significant portion of the adult population is affected, and many cases go undiagnosed until complications arise.”
Doctors observed that while awareness about weight-loss drugs is increasing, many patients are opting for them without proper guidance. They warned that drugs like Semaglutide are being widely marketed but should not be used without a doctor’s prescription, as dosage varies for liver disease patients.
“A healthy liver depends on simple, consistent habits: eat balanced, fibre-rich foods, exercise daily for at least 30 minutes, avoid or strictly limit alcohol, and go for regular health check-ups. Most liver diseases can be prevented if these basic principles are followed,” said Dr K.N. Chandan Kumar, director, hepatology.
