Experts: 4 out of 10 Indians hit by fatty liver, teetotallers also at risk
They pointed out that four out of ten people in India are now affected by this condition.
Many people still believe that only those who consume alcohol are at risk of developing fatty liver disease. However, experts warned that even teetotallers can suffer from fatty liver disease.
"Fat gets deposited in the liver due to certain metabolic conditions, including diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, negligible physical activity, and some diseases and drugs.
Previously, when we found fat in the liver, we did not worry much. But once we discovered that MASLD is a common cause of cirrhosis, we began taking it seriously," said Dr Abhay Sahoo, an endocrinologist.
Sahoo stated that initially, fat accumulates slowly in the liver, a condition known as hepatic steatosis. "After about five years, inflammation begins, and the liver becomes swollen. In the next stage, it progresses to fibrosis, which can eventually lead to cirrhosis.
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We can reverse fatty liver in its early stage, but once fibrosis sets in, there is little chance of reversing the damage," he added.
Sahoo said that people with fatty liver disease are usually asymptomatic. "They often do not experience any symptoms until the condition becomes severe. Some people may feel pain or discomfort on the right side of the abdomen. We often detect MASLD incidentally during an ultrasound or other tests," he said.
Dr Satyajit Tripathy, a diabetologist, added that liver function tests (LFT), ultrasound scans, and even a fibroscan can help detect MASLD and assess liver elasticity. "This advanced test can detect fibrosis in the liver. A liver biopsy is another method to diagnose the disease," Tripathy said.
He added that untreated MASLD can lead to more serious complications. "Exercises such as walking and yoga, along with dietary control and lifestyle changes, can help reverse this metabolic disorder if caught early. We need to maintain a healthy work-life balance and reduce fat accumulation, especially around the belly. A balanced diet is key to reducing liver fat. Even regular walking combined with a good diet can lower the risk of MASLD.
Following a proper circadian rhythm is also important for a healthy lifestyle," said Tripathy.
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