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Hyderabad: A silent but rapidly growing health concern is emerging across urban India, with nearly one in three city residents estimated to have fatty liver disease, often without noticeable symptoms. On the occasion of World Liver Day, observed this year with the theme “Solid Habits, Strong Liver,” doctors warned that the condition, once associated largely with older adults, is now increasingly being diagnosed among individuals in the 30–50 age group.
Adding to the concern, experts point out that rising childhood obesity is also emerging as an early driver of liver disease, with nearly one-third of schoolchildren now classified as obese—putting them at risk of developing fatty liver at a younger age.
“This is not just a medical issue but a reflection of changing lifestyles. Long hours of sitting, irregular eating habits, fast food consumption, rising stress, and lack of physical activity are affecting liver health. We are seeing higher incidence particularly among IT and corporate professionals, with greater risk among those with diabetes, obesity, and hypertension,” said Dr. Ramsagar Vidya Sagar, Senior Gastroenterologist, CARE Hospitals.
Doctors say the most concerning aspect of fatty liver disease is its “silent” progression. In its early stages, the condition typically causes no symptoms and is often detected incidentally during routine medical tests. As a result, many patients seek care only when the disease has already progressed to serious complications such as cirrhosis or liver failure.
“Liver problems are often silent and may not show symptoms until they reach an advanced stage. A simple liver function test alone is not enough to diagnose most liver conditions. People should undergo a comprehensive evaluation, including blood tests, ultrasound, and in some cases a FibroScan to assess fat accumulation and liver stiffness. Early detection allows timely intervention and significantly improves outcomes,” said Dr. Sonal Asthana, Senior Consultant – HPB & Liver Transplant, CARE Hospitals.
In response to the rising burden of liver disorders, CARE Hospitals says it has adopted a multidisciplinary approach that integrates gastroenterology, hepatology, critical care, and transplant services to ensure early diagnosis and timely treatment.
Experts recommend that individuals above the age of 30—particularly those with diabetes, obesity, or sedentary lifestyles—undergo annual liver screening.
“Symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, unexplained weight gain, and abdominal fat should not be ignored. Self-medication and excessive use of supplements must also be avoided. Obese individuals, in particular, require regular screening, as they remain at significantly higher risk of developing fatty liver disease,” said Dr. Kumara Swamy, Senior Consultant – Liver Transplant & HPB Surgery.
Doctors stress that simple lifestyle changes can significantly protect liver health. Eating balanced meals, opting for low-fat diets, engaging in at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity, avoiding unnecessary medications, and limiting alcohol intake can help reduce the burden on the liver. For those with desk jobs, taking regular breaks and staying physically active during the day can also make a difference.
