Saqib Rather
Srinagar, July 7: Fatty liver disease is emerging as a growing health concern in Jammu and Kashmir, with doctors reporting an increase in patients diagnosed with the condition during routine medical examinations and evaluations for lifestyle-related illnesses.
Gastroenterologists and physicians say many people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)—now increasingly referred to in medical literature as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)—show no symptoms in the early stages, allowing the condition to progress unnoticed. They attribute the rising number of cases to increasing rates of obesity, Type 2 diabetes, unhealthy diets and physical inactivity.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and leading liver disease associations, fatty liver disease has become one of the most common chronic liver conditions worldwide, closely linked to metabolic disorders rather than alcohol consumption in many patients.
“Earlier, we diagnosed fatty liver mainly in middle-aged patients,” said Dr. Syed Tariq Ahmad, a consultant gastroenterologist. “Today, we are seeing the condition more frequently among younger adults, particularly those who are overweight, physically inactive or living with diabetes.”
Doctors say many patients discover the condition accidentally while undergoing ultrasound scans or blood tests for unrelated health problems.
“Fatty liver often progresses silently,” said Dr. Ruqaya Jan, a physician. “People usually do not experience symptoms until the disease has advanced. That is why regular health check-ups are important, especially for individuals with obesity, diabetes or high cholesterol.”
Medical experts explain that while early-stage fatty liver can often be reversed through weight management, healthier eating habits and regular physical activity, untreated disease may progress to liver inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis and, in some cases, liver cancer.
According to studies published in peer-reviewed medical journals, India has witnessed a steady rise in fatty liver disease alongside increasing rates of obesity and metabolic syndrome. Gastroenterologists in Kashmir say they are observing a similar trend in clinical practice.
Nutritionists believe changing dietary habits are contributing to the problem.
“People are consuming more processed foods, sugary beverages and calorie-rich meals while becoming less physically active,” said Dr. Shazia Bhat, a clinical nutritionist. “Even a modest weight loss of around 7 to 10 per cent can significantly improve liver health in many patients with fatty liver disease.”
Doctors also caution against relying on unverified herbal remedies or supplements promoted on social media.
“There is no shortcut to treating fatty liver,” said Dr. Bilal Ahmad, a hepatologist. “Patients should seek medical advice rather than self-medicating. Scientific evidence consistently shows that lifestyle modification remains the cornerstone of treatment.”
Public health experts say increasing awareness is essential because many people mistakenly believe liver disease affects only those who consume alcohol.
“That misconception delays diagnosis,” said Dr. Ruqaya Jan. “We frequently diagnose fatty liver in individuals who do not drink alcohol but have obesity, diabetes or other metabolic risk factors.”
Health professionals recommend maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding unnecessary processed foods and undergoing periodic medical evaluations for those at risk.
“As Kashmir experiences rapid urbanisation and changing lifestyles, preventing lifestyle-related diseases must become a public health priority,” said Dr. Ahmad. “The liver has an extraordinary ability to recover when problems are detected early. Awareness and timely intervention can make all the difference.” With lifestyle-related illnesses continuing to rise, doctors say tackling fatty liver disease will require greater public awareness, early screening of high-risk groups and sustained efforts to promote healthier living across the region.
