What is FATTY LIVER?

FATTY LIVER is a condition where excess fat builds up in the liver, mainly due to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. It occurs in people who drink little to no alcohol. In India, the number of people affected is rising due to unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles.

How Common is FATTY LIVER?

MASLD affects about 30% of adults worldwide. In India, rising obesity and diabetes rates mean more people are at risk. A severe form, called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver failure.

Symptoms of FATTY LIVER- (MASLD/MASH)

·         Most people have no symptoms.

·         Some may experience tiredness or mild discomfort in the right upper abdomen.

·         In advanced stages (cirrhosis), symptoms include swelling in the legs or abdomen, confusion, and jaundice (yellowing of eyes/skin).

·         Children with MASLD may have abdominal pain and dark skin patches (acanthosis nigricans) on the neck or armpits.

Causes and Risk Factors

FATTY LIVER (MASLD) is linked to metabolic syndrome, which includes:

·         Obesity

·         Diabetes or prediabetes

·         High cholesterol or triglycerides

·         High blood pressure

·         Poor lifestyle habits such as unhealthy diet and lack of exercise

How is FATTY LIVER/ MASLD Diagnosed?

·         Liver function tests (LFTs) to check for abnormal liver enzymes.

·         Ultrasound (USG abdomen) to detect fatty liver (FATTY LIVER).

·         Fibro Scan or MRI or USG Elastography to assess liver stiffness and fat content.

·         Blood tests for sugar levels (FBS), cholesterol, and thyroid function.

·         Liver biopsy (only in select cases) to confirm inflammation and scarring.

Why is FATTY LIVER/MASLD Serious?

·         It increases the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

·         Around 20% of MASLD patients develop MASH, which can lead to liver scarring (fibrosis) and cirrhosis.

·         In severe cases, liver failure and liver cancer can occur, requiring a liver transplant.

Treatment and Prevention

Currently, no FDA-approved medication can cure MASLD/MASH, but lifestyle changes can help reverse or slow disease progression.

1. Weight Loss & Diet

·         Losing 7-10% of body weight can reduce liver fat and inflammation.

·         Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

·         Avoid sugary drinks, junk food, fried foods, and high-fat meals.

·         Control portion sizes and track calorie intake.

·         Drink plenty of water.

2. Regular Exercise

·         Aim for 150-300 minutes of exercise per week (like brisk walking, yoga, cycling).

·         Try to reach 10,000 steps per day.

·         Find an activity you enjoy and be consistent.

3. Medical Management

·         Control diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol.

·         Limit alcohol intake or avoid it completely.

·         Rest of medical management needs doctor supervision

Key Takeaway

MASLD is preventable and manageable with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight control. Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes can reverse liver damage and prevent complications. If you have risk factors, get regular liver check-ups and discuss screening options with your doctor.