In response to a sharp increase in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) cases, Mumbai’s renowned KEM Hospital is set to launch a dedicated clinic aimed at tackling this growing public health concern. NAFLD, a condition marked by fat accumulation in the liver unrelated to alcohol consumption, has emerged as a silent epidemic, affecting millions across India due to changing lifestyles and dietary habits.The clinic will be inaugurated on Jan 20,2025 by actor Amitabh Bachchan, who will take part in the hospital’s centenary celebrations.
The new clinic at KEM Hospital aims to provide comprehensive care, including early diagnosis, lifestyle counseling, and medical management. Equipped with advanced diagnostic tools such as transient elastography (FibroScan) and supported by a multidisciplinary team of hepatologists, dieticians, and fitness experts, the clinic will focus on tailored treatment plans for each patient.
Key services offered include targeting at-risk populations, such as those with diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Organizing workshops and awareness campaigns to empower individuals with knowledge about liver health. Another important step could be managing patients with NASH or liver fibrosis and coordinating with liver transplant units when necessary as well as emphasizing diet modification, physical activity, and weight management to reverse early-stage NAFLD.
Impact of NAFLDon public health
NAFLD is now one of the leading causes of liver-related complications in India, with rising prevalence attributed to obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and unhealthy diets. Left untreated, the condition can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer. Alarmingly, NAFLD is increasingly being diagnosed in younger populations, including children. DrAkash Shukla, professor and head of the Department of Gastroenterology, emphasized the urgency of addressing this condition:“NAFLD is no longer just a disease of the affluent. It affects urban and rural populations alike, and early detection is crucial to prevent serious complications.”
Call to Action in Tackling the Rising Threat of NAFLD
India’s Ministry of Health has recognized NAFLD as a significant public health challenge, incorporating it into the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke (NPCDCS). KEM Hospital’s initiative aligns with this national strategy, aiming to reduce the disease burden through early intervention and community awareness.With NAFLD projected to become the leading cause of liver transplants globally, experts stress the importance of prevention.
“This clinic is not just about treating NAFLD; it’s about fostering a culture of prevention and proactive health management,” said Dr. Shukla. KEM Hospital’s clinic is expected to serve as a model for other healthcare institutions across India, underscoring the need for dedicated services to combat lifestyle-related diseases. As awareness grows, the hope is to curb the NAFLD epidemic and promote healthier living nationwide.
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