Liver diseases are rising rapidly; lifestyle is the biggest cause
- Experts at Medanta share important advice on World Liver Day
Lucknow, April 18, 2026: Amid changing lifestyles, irregular eating habits, and a growing number of diabetes cases, liver diseases are becoming a serious concern. Notably, this issue is no longer limited to people who consume alcohol; even non-drinkers are increasingly being affected.
Doctors believe that if timely action is not taken, the situation could become even more alarming in the coming years.
On the occasion of World Liver Day, experts at an awareness program organized at Medanta Hospital—including Dr. Abhai Verma (Director, Gastroenterology), Dr. Sandeep Kumar Verma (Director, GI Surgery), Dr. Anand Prakash (Director, GI Surgery), Dr. Vivek Gupta (Senior Consultant, Liver Transplant), and Dr. Durga Prasad (Senior Consultant, Pediatric Care)—educated the public about liver health.
Doctors explained that fatty liver disease is becoming increasingly common and is directly linked to our daily habits. Eating outside food, excessive oil and sugar consumption, packaged foods, and lack of physical activity are the main causes. This problem is especially prevalent among people who live away from home or have sedentary jobs.
Liver disease is difficult to detect in its early stages because its symptoms are very mild, such as fatigue, loss of appetite, or swelling in the legs. As a result, most patients seek medical help only when the disease has significantly progressed. Therefore, regular screening after the age of 40—and especially for people with diabetes or obesity—is extremely important.
If neglected for a long time, fatty liver can progress to serious conditions such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. However, 80–90% of cases can be prevented through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol.
Medanta’s Medical Director, Dr. Rakesh Kapoor, said, “Liver disease is silent, and by the time its symptoms become apparent, significant damage has already occurred. Therefore, regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and an active lifestyle are essential.”
Doctors urged everyone to make small but meaningful changes in their daily routine, undergo regular check-ups, and avoid negligence to prevent serious liver-related diseases in time.