Latest news with #MASLD
Time of India
3 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Experts: 4 out of 10 Indians hit by fatty liver, teetotallers also at risk
Bhubaneswar: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), or fatty liver disease, is fast emerging as a major global health challenge, experts said at the Metabolic Horizon-2025 conference organised here on Saturday. 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. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Upto 15% Discount for Salaried Individuals ICICI Pru Life Insurance Plan Get Quote Undo 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.
Medscape
7 days ago
- Health
- Medscape
Does Metabolic Dysfunction Affect Liver Fibrosis in Hep B?
TOPLINE: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) was prevalent in more than 40% of patients with chronic hepatitis B and was independently associated with advanced fibrosis. METHODOLOGY: This cross-sectional study was conducted at 19 specialised hepatology centres across five European countries to assess the prevalence and risk factors for MASLD and fibrosis. This study included 1709 consecutive patients with chronic hepatitis B (median age, 53 years; 60.7% men; 57.3% White), defined as the persistence of hepatitis B surface antigen for at least 6 months. MASLD was diagnosed using ultrasound, histology, and/or transient elastography, with a controlled attenuation parameter score ≥ 275 dB/m with at least one metabolic risk factor. In patients with chronic hepatitis B and MASLD, advanced fibrosis was defined as liver stiffness measurement values ≥ 8 kPa. TAKEAWAY: The prevalence of MASLD in patients with chronic hepatitis B was 42.3% and that of advanced fibrosis was 18%. Advanced fibrosis was more common in those with MASLD than in those without MASLD (25.4% vs 13.7%). In the multivariate analysis, BMI and type 2 diabetes were independently associated with MASLD in patients with chronic hepatitis B (odds ratio [OR], 1.27; P < .001 and OR, 2.60; P = .03, respectively). Factors associated with advanced fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B included MASLD (OR, 2.78; 95% CI, 1.50-5.05), BMI (OR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.02-1.15), insulin treatment (OR, 13.88; 95% CI, 2.95-65.28), and long-term antiviral treatment (OR, 4.86; 95% CI, 2.40-9.85). MASLD was more common in patients who were on antiviral treatment than in those who were untreated (49.2% vs 44.2%; P = .046). Screening practices for MASLD varied, with 68.4% of centres screened all patients with chronic hepatitis B and 21.1% screened only those with metabolic syndrome and/or steatosis on ultrasound and abnormal liver function tests. IN PRACTICE: "The results from our study might genuinely mirror the increase in MASLD cases in Europe that is also reflected in patients with CHB [chronic hepatitis B]," the authors wrote. SOURCE: This study was led by Maria Kalafateli and Roberta Forlano, Imperial College London, London, England. It was published online on July 01, 2025, in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology. LIMITATIONS: This study was retrospective in nature with missing data from some participating centres. The use of liver stiffness measurement to define advanced fibrosis, despite its modest predictive performance, could have influenced the results. The short duration of longitudinal data collection limited the ability to observe long-term effects of MASLD on chronic hepatitis B outcomes. DISCLOSURES: The authors declared having no conflicts of interest. This study did not receive any specific funding, but the Division of Digestive Diseases at Imperial College London received financial support from the National Institute for Health and Care Research Imperial Biomedical Research Centre and one author was a recipient of a Medical Research Council Clinician Scientist award. This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.
Time of India
04-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Healthy outside, sick inside: The hidden danger of fatty liver
Representative Image In today's fast-paced life, it's easy to overlook what we can't feel. Fatty liver is one such condition — often silent, commonly missed, and rapidly becoming one of India's most widespread health issues. It is estimated that nearly one in three urban Indians may have fatty liver disease without being aware of it. What is fatty liver and why should you care? Fatty liver, now increasingly referred to as MASLD (Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease), occurs when fat accumulates excessively within liver cells. While a small amount of fat is normal, too much can impair liver function and lead to long-term complications like inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer. Most patients do not experience any symptoms. The condition is usually discovered during routine checkups or imaging tests done for other reasons, — making early detection even more critical. Who is at risk of fatty liver? Are you overweight? Do you have a sedentary lifestyle? Do you often consume junk food or sugar-sweetened beverages? If yes, you may be at risk. Fatty liver is no longer a disease of the elderly or those who consume alcohol. It is increasingly found in non-drinkers, young adults, and even teenagers, — largely due to poor lifestyle habits. Those with diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure are particularly vulnerable. Zydus recently launched #LiverKiSuno, a public awareness initiative aimed at promoting healthy lifestyle habits for better liver health. Such campaigns play a vital role in increasing awareness about liver-related conditions and educating the public on effective prevention and management strategies. How does fatty liver progress over time? Can a little fat in the liver really harm you? The answer is yes. If not addressed early, fatty liver can silently progress over the years from a mild stage to serious liver damage. This damage may not be reversible in advanced stages and can ultimately lead to liver failure or cancer. That's why early diagnosis and lifestyle modification are the best ways to protect your liver. What can you do to reverse fatty liver? Is fatty liver treatable? Absolutely — especially in its early stages, and the first step is not a pill, but a lifestyle change. Exercise is key. Brisk walking, cycling, or swimming for at least 30–45 minutes most days of the week can significantly reduce liver fat. Gradual weight loss is effective — even losing 5 to 10 percent of body weight can make a measurable difference. Equally important is diet. Avoid junk food and ultra-processed items like chips, biscuits, and sugary drinks. Cut down on refined carbs like white bread and fried foods. Choose whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and home-cooked meals rich in fibere and low in saturated fats. Sleep also plays a vital role. Studies show that sleeping less than 6 hours regularly can worsen insulin resistance and liver health. Aim for a good 7 hours of quality sleep every night. Should you get tested? If you're at risk — even without symptoms — it's wise to get screened. A simple ultrasound and basic liver function tests can help detect fatty liver early. The Liver Never Complains — Until It's Too Late. Your liver quietly performs over 500 essential functions every day. It digests food, stores energy, filters toxins, and keeps you alive — all without making a sound. Don't wait for a problem to show up. Start today. Eat clean. Move more. Sleep well. And take charge of your liver health before it's too late. Author: Dr Rajiv Mehta Consultant Liver Specialist SIDS Hospital and Research Centre Surat The above is non-editorial content and TIL does not guarantee, vouch or endorse any of it. Please take all steps necessary to ascertain that any information and content provided is correct, updated, and verified.
Jordan News
03-07-2025
- Health
- Jordan News
A Diet That Protects Against One of the Most Dangerous Liver Diseases - Jordan News
A Diet That Protects Against One of the Most Dangerous Liver Diseases A recent Spanish study has revealed that following a specific diet can significantly reduce the risk of developing Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) — one of the most prevalent liver diseases. اضافة اعلان According to the journal Nutrients, Spanish researchers investigating the causes of MASLD and the impact of dietary patterns found that certain diets — particularly the Mediterranean diet — effectively lower the risk of this condition. In their research, scientists from Rovira i Virgili University in Spain conducted a comprehensive analysis of 13 scientific studies involving 926 participants to evaluate the effects of various diets on MASLD. The findings showed that the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes vegetables, fish, whole grains, and olive oil, achieved the best results in reducing the risk of fat accumulation in the liver. The study also demonstrated that the Mediterranean diet helps to: Lower markers of MASLD Improve blood sugar control Reduce inflammation triggers in the body Researchers also observed a positive effect of intermittent fasting on patient outcomes. However, they emphasized the need for long-term studies to confirm the sustainability of these benefits on liver function and to identify optimal dietary protocols. The research team stressed that MASLD is influenced by multiple risk factors, with nutrition playing a central role. Their findings offer hope for developing effective dietary strategies to prevent liver diseases associated with obesity. Source:
Time of India
01-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
'Liver fibrosis raises risk of cancer by 3-4 times'
Lucknow: Liver fibrosis can increase the risk of cancers like colorectal, breast, and prostate by 3 to 4 times, warned Prof Gaurav Pandey from the department of gastroenterology, SGPGIMS. He spoke at a health talk titled "Fatty Liver - the Silent Epidemic" organised by the Club of Lucknow on Sunday. The event began with an address by chief secretary Manoj Kumar Singh. Prof Pandey said fatty liver disease , now called MASLD (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease), is often silent in the early stages and usually detected by chance. The liver, which weighs about 1.5 kg, processes everything we eat and drink. Excess fat can lead to inflammation and fibrosis (scarring), which may progress to cirrhosis and even require a liver transplant. "There is no cure for fibrosis-not in the liver, lungs or kidneys," he said. In India, 1 in 3 people has fatty liver. Among diabetics, the risk rises to 60-70%. The diagnosis is based on fat in the liver plus one or more metabolic issues-such as high BMI, sugar, blood pressure, triglycerides or low HDL. If moderate alcohol use is present along with metabolic issues, it's termed MASH. Consumption above 50 grams/day is classified as alcoholic liver disease. Fatty liver with obesity also increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, pancreatitis and several cancers. Around 8-10% of patients may develop serious complications within 10-15 years. Yet liver enzymes may remain normal even when damage is severe-making early testing, like FIB-4, vital. "MASLD is largely a metabolic disorder, not just due to alcohol or poor diet," Pandey said. Dr Supriya Sharma from the gastro surgery department highlighted the urgent need for organ donors. India's deceased donor rate is just 0.5 per 10 lakh, compared to 90 in Western countries. "End-stage liver disease is the sixth leading cause of death in India," she said, urging people to register as donors.
