Context:
Recently, on Global Fatty Liver Day, the importance of early detection of Fatty liver disease and proactive health screenings was highlighted.
Key highlights:
- This year, the theme for International Fatty Liver Day is ‘Act Now, Screen Today’.
- This theme highlights the urgent need for awareness and proactive health screenings more than ever before.
- Fatty liver disease, once primarily associated with excessive alcohol consumption, has emerged as a significant and growing health concern linked closely to metabolic syndrome.
- This syndrome encompasses conditions such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and abnormal cholesterol levels.
- The progressive form, Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), characterized by liver inflammation and scarring, is projected to become the leading cause of chronic liver disease and a major reason for liver transplants.
Fatty liver disease (FLD)
FLD is a growing health concern worldwide, and India is no exception. This condition, also known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is characterized by an abnormal buildup of fat in the liver, even in people who don’t drink excessive alcohol.
Global Fatty Liver Day
- The Global Liver Institute, based in Washington, D.C., collaborates with over 220 organizations from more than 75 countries to recognize June 13 as Global Fatty Liver Day.
- Since 2018, this special day has raised awareness and educated people about a disease that affects roughly 1 in 4 people worldwide.
Causes:
The main culprit behind FLD is often linked to an unhealthy lifestyle, including:
- Excessive consumption of refined carbohydrates and sugars, leading to insulin resistance and fat storage in the liver.
- Obesity and overweight conditions.
- Lack of physical activity.
Complications:
- While early-stage FLD may not cause immediate harm, it can progress to more severe conditions like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), cirrhosis, and even liver cancer.
Prevalence:
- Global prevalence of Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is estimated to be 25-30%.
- In India, the situation is particularly severe, with a 2022 meta-analysis revealing that 38.6% of adults and around 36% of obese children have fatty liver disease.
- Individuals with metabolic syndrome conditions face exceptionally high MASLD prevalence rates of 55.5%-59.7% for diabetes, 64.6%-95% for obesity, and 73% for severe metabolic syndrome
Challenges and Concerns:
- Silent Disease: FLD often progresses without noticeable symptoms, leading to delayed diagnosis and potentially more advanced stages of the disease by the time it’s detected.
- Lack of Awareness: Limited public awareness surrounding FLD and its risk factors can hinder early intervention and preventive measures.
Initiatives and Solutions:
- Integration with Existing Programs: The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare aims to integrate NAFLD management with existing programs like the National Programme for Prevention & Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS). This allows for leveraging existing infrastructure for screening, diagnosis, and management.
- Lifestyle Changes: Promoting healthy lifestyles through public health campaigns and community initiatives is crucial. This includes advocating for balanced diets, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight.
- Early Detection: Encouraging regular health checkups and raising awareness about FLD symptoms can facilitate early diagnosis and timely treatment.