New Delhi: Fatty liver disease, now termed metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), has emerged as a global health crisis, impacting one in every three adults.
Often dubbed a ‘silent killer’, it builds up excess fat in the liver without early warnings, but if ignored, it can escalate to inflammation, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer.
Experts warn that certain everyday habits accelerate this dangerous progression. A diet loaded with sugary drinks, refined carbs, ultra-processed snacks like chips and biscuits, and fast food rapidly piles fat on the liver. Sedentary lifestyles — long hours of sitting with little movement — further weaken the organ’s ability to process fats. Compounding risks are underlying issues like obesity, type-2 diabetes, and high cholesterol, which fast-track damage.
If untreated, MASLD advances to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), triggering inflammation, cell damage, fibrosis, and a sharply higher chance of hepatocellular carcinoma, as noted by the MD Anderson Cancer Center.
The good news? Early intervention works wonders. Shedding just 5–10% of body weight can reverse a lot of the fat buildup. Switch to a Mediterranean-style diet packed with vegetables, whole grains, nuts, olive oil, and fish. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly — simple steps like climbing stairs or walking during phone calls count. Regular check-ups, good sleep, and even moderate coffee consumption (thanks to its antioxidants) can shield the liver.
Doctors urge high-risk individuals to screen early, as symptoms like fatigue or mild abdominal discomfort appear late. With lifestyle tweaks, this looming threat can be halted effectively.
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