Rising Burden of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), Formerly Known as NAFLD/NASH, Impacts Nearly 1 in 3 Indians: Wockhardt Hospitals Issues Urgent Call on World Liver Day 2026
Mumbai, Apr 20: Marking World Liver Day 2026 Wockhardt Hospitals has sounded a strong public health alert on the growing prevalence of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), earlier known as NAFLD/NASH. With the theme “Solid Habits, Strong Liver,” this year’s campaign highlights a critical fact: nearly 30% of India’s population is estimated to be affected by fatty liver disease, making it one of the most widespread yet underdiagnosed health concerns in the country.
MASLD is closely linked to modern lifestyle factors such as poor diet, obesity, diabetes, and lack of physical activity. Despite its scale, the disease often remains undetected due to its asymptomatic nature in early stages. If left unmanaged, it can progress to serious complications including cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.
Dr. Imran Shaikh, Consultant GI, HPB & GI Oncosurgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, highlighted the urgency of early intervention. “Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) is a silent but rapidly escalating threat in India. What is particularly concerning is the shift towards younger age groups. The reality is that nearly 90% of liver disease is preventable. With timely lifestyle changes—balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and routine screenings—we can not only halt progression but often reverse the condition in its early stages.”
Liver diseases are increasingly being diagnosed in younger Indians, driven largely by sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy eating habits, and rising obesity rates. High consumption of processed foods, sugary drinks, and lack of physical activity are contributing to early onset of fatty liver conditions like MASLD. Alarmingly, cases are now being seen in individuals in their 20s and 30s, an age group previously considered low-risk. The growing prevalence of diabetes and metabolic syndrome among youth is further accelerating this trend. Because liver disease often shows no symptoms in early stages, many young patients are diagnosed only after significant damage has occurred. This shift highlights the urgent need for lifestyle awareness, early screening, and preventive healthcare among India’s young population.
Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road is actively encouraging individuals, especially those with diabetes, obesity, or metabolic syndrome, to undergo regular liver health check-ups. Early diagnosis plays a crucial role in preventing irreversible damage and improving long-term outcomes.
Through its continued commitment to preventive healthcare, Wockhardt Hospitals is driving awareness, promoting early screening, and delivering advanced care for liver diseases. On this World Liver Day, Wockhardt Hospitals urges citizens to take proactive steps towards healthier living and prioritize liver health before symptoms arise. Wockhardt Hospitals is a leading healthcare provider known for its excellence in clinical care, advanced technology, and patient-first approach across specialties, including gastroenterology and hepatobiliary sciences.
