With fatty liver cases rising rapidly, many people are discovering the condition unexpectedly. A 24-year-old professional from Delhi NCR had no idea she had a fatty liver until a routine scan revealed it. She initially visited a gynaecologist for severe lower abdominal pain, which was diagnosed as a urinary tract infection (UTI). During the check-up, doctors also found that she had PCOD, a common condition among women. However, what came as a surprise was the diagnosis of Grade 1 fatty liver, despite her having no noticeable symptoms.

Fatty liver is becoming increasingly common among young people, yet many remain unaware of it until a routine health check-up unexpectedly reveals the condition. Even after diagnosis, most tend to ignore it until it progresses to a more serious stage.

Experts and research confirm this growing concern. Dr. Vishal Khurana, Director of Gastroenterology and Hepatobiliary Sciences at Metro Hospital, Faridabad, states that fatty liver is often discovered by accident during regular health screenings. He notes that nearly 30-40% of the population shows some form of fatty liver, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and preventive measures.

A recent study shows that 80% of IT professionals in India suffer from fatty liver, mainly due to work stress, lack of exercise, and unhealthy lifestyle choices.

Similarly, a 2021 study that analyzed data from 50 research papers on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) found that 38% of Indian adults have the condition. Chandigarh had the highest percentage at 53.5%. The study also showed that 35% of children in India are affected by NAFLD.

Before understanding why liver disease cases are rising, it's important to clarify the different types of the condition, as they can be confusing.

Fatty liver disease occurs when too much fat builds up in the liver. It is categorized into alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD), caused by excessive alcohol consumption, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is more common, especially among young people with metabolic disorders.

Dr. Sanjiv Saigal, Principal Director and Head of Liver Transplant and Biliary Sciences at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, explains that fatty liver develops in four stages: simple fatty liver, inflammation (steatohepatitis), fibrosis, and cirrhosis. While early-stage fatty liver can be reversed, cirrhosis leads to permanent liver damage.

NAFLD and Its link to metabolic syndrome

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is closely linked to metabolic syndrome, which includes conditions like obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

Why are fatty liver cases Increasing?

The rise in fatty liver cases is directly connected to lifestyle changes and unhealthy eating habits. Dr Pavan Hanchanale, a hepatologist and liver transplant specialist at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, attributes this surge to sedentary lifestyles, high consumption of fast food, and increasing alcohol intake.

Dr. Sanjiv Saigal highlights how modern habits have impacted young people’s health. "Lack of exercise and excessive screen time, whether on computers, iPads, or studying indoors has significantly contributed to this issue. Earlier, children spent hours playing outside, but that has drastically reduced today," he explains.

How to know if you have fatty liver?

Fatty liver disease is often called a "silent disease" because it usually does not show symptoms in its early stages. However, as it progresses, certain signs may indicate liver problems. According to Nausheen Shaikh, a nutritionist and diet consultant at Alive Health, some common symptoms include persistent fatigue, weakness, pain in the upper right abdomen, unexplained weight loss, swelling in the abdomen (ascites), jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes in severe cases), dark urine, and pale stools.

To diagnose fatty liver and understand its severity, doctors recommend different tests. Liver function tests (LFTs) measure enzyme levels to check liver health. Ultrasound or FibroScan helps detect fat buildup and liver stiffness. Blood tests, such as fasting blood sugar, lipid profile, and HbA1c, can identify risk factors like insulin resistance and high cholesterol. In more advanced cases, MRI or CT scans provide detailed images for a clearer diagnosis.

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