India is witnessing a surge in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now affecting nearly one-third of the urban population. This silent epidemic is intertwined with rising obesity, diabetes, and sedentary lifestyles.
The challenge is twofold: lack of awareness and limited screening. Unlike communicable diseases, NAFLD rarely makes headlines, yet its long-term impact—cirrhosis, liver cancer, and transplant needs—is devastating.
Public health policy must prioritize:
- Community screening programs for high-risk groups.
- Integration of liver health into national non-communicable disease (NCD) strategies.
- Educational campaigns to shift focus from treatment to prevention.
India’s healthcare system has made strides in infectious disease control. It’s time to extend that momentum to liver health, ensuring that prevention becomes a national priority.
