Fatty liver disease may trigger rise in transplant demand: GMC expert

Srinagar, Oct 6: With fatty liver disease becoming increasingly common, health experts have warned that the growing burden of the condition could translate into a significant rise in advanced liver disease and liver failure cases in the coming years, placing greater demand on liver transplantation services.
Professor Muhammad Salim Khan, Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, described the situation as an “epidemic of fatty liver” and stressed the urgent need for preventive measures, particularly among children and younger people.
“Almost every second person is now having fatty liver,” Dr Khan said, cautioning that the increasing prevalence of the condition could contribute to a substantial rise in liver-related complications in the future.
He warned that if the current trend continues, the demand for liver donors and liver transplantation could increase considerably over the next five to ten years, potentially placing a major burden on transplant services.
According to Dr Khan, a significant proportion of fatty liver cases are linked to modifiable lifestyle and dietary factors, making prevention an important component of tackling the emerging burden.
He urged people to reduce their intake of foods rich in sugars and unhealthy fats and avoid excessive consumption of junk and fast food, packaged and processed foods, soft drinks and other sweetened beverages.
“Protect yourself and your families, especially your children, from preventable liver failure by adopting a healthy lifestyle,” he said.
According to the doctor, excessive calorie intake combined with inadequate physical activity is an important concern, particularly as sedentary lifestyles become increasingly common.
He advised people to focus on fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and traditional home-cooked meals while avoiding overeating. At the same time, he called for a substantial increase in physical activity, including brisk walking, jogging, running and sports.
Dr Khan said lifestyle modification should remain a key component of long-term health protection rather than relying primarily on medicines and other support systems after disease has already developed.
“Lifestyle modification is a key to living a better and healthier life ahead than depending on medicines and support systems,” he said.
He urged families to make physical activity and healthier eating habits part of their daily routine, saying preventive lifestyle changes could play a crucial role in reducing the future burden of liver disease and protecting the next generation. (KNO)