Fatty liver cases surge in India, driven by diabetes and obesity: study

Cases of Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease have risen sharply in India since 1990, driven largely by increasing rates of diabetes and obesity, according to a new study published in The Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology.

Globally, about 16 per cent of the population, or one in six people, were living with the condition in 2023, marking a 143 per cent increase since 1990. In India, prevalence rose by 23.19 per cent over the same period, with age-standardised rates increasing from 10,191 per 100,000 in 1990 to 12,555 per 100,000 in 2023.

Researchers said the rise is closely linked to metabolic risk factors such as high blood sugar, high body mass index, and smoking. High fasting plasma glucose emerged as the leading contributor to disease burden.

Despite the increase in cases, the study noted a slight decline in disability-adjusted life years linked to the disease in India, suggesting improvements in care may be delaying severe outcomes. However, experts warned that a growing number of people remain at risk of complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer.

The study, part of the Global Burden of Disease 2023 analysis, covered 204 countries and projected that fatty liver disease could affect 1.8 billion people worldwide by 2050.

Doctors said the condition is increasingly being detected in younger adults and is often asymptomatic in early stages, leading to delayed diagnosis. Urbanisation, sedentary lifestyles, and diets high in processed foods have contributed to rising prevalence, particularly in Indian cities.

Experts emphasised that the disease is reversible if detected early, and called for greater awareness, screening, and lifestyle changes, including healthier diets, regular exercise, and better management of blood sugar levels.