Gastrointestinal surgeon reveals 4 most common liver diseases in India: ‘Most can be prevented by…’

By Admin

29 Sep, 2025

Liver diseases are rising in India at an alarming pace, posing a serious public health challenge. A 2022 study highlighted that India accounted for 18.3% of the two million global liver disease-related deaths in 2015 and the numbers are expected to increase significantly in the coming years.

Despite this worrying trend, experts say most liver diseases are preventable. Gastrointestinal surgeon Dr. Swapnil Sharma stressed that lifestyle habits and preventive health checkups are key to reducing the risk.

“Most liver diseases can be prevented by making simple lifestyle changes,” Dr. Sharma explained. “Eating a balanced diet with more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while reducing fried and processed foods supports liver health. Regular physical activity, clean drinking water, good hygiene practices, and timely vaccinations play a vital role too.”

Preventive Measures That Work

• Follow a balanced diet rich in whole foods.
  
  

• Avoid obesity with regular exercise or even brisk walking.
  
  

• Drink clean, safe water to prevent infections like hepatitis A and E.
  
  

• Get vaccinated against hepatitis B.
  
  

• Stay away from unregulated injections or blood transfusions.
  
  

• Undergo regular health checkups, including simple blood tests and ultrasounds, to detect early warning signs.
  
  

The 4 Most Common Liver Diseases in India

1. Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver disease is one of the most prevalent conditions, often linked to obesity, lack of exercise, and a diet high in fried foods and sugary drinks. Importantly, it is not restricted to alcohol consumers non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is very common in India, even among the youth. If left untreated, it can progress to cirrhosis or liver cancer.

2. Viral Hepatitis

Hepatitis A and E spread through contaminated food and water, while hepatitis B and C are linked to infected blood, unsafe medical procedures, or unprotected sex. Since symptoms often appear only after serious damage, early detection is critical. Vaccination against hepatitis B, along with safe hygiene practices, can prevent most cases.

3. Cirrhosis

Alcohol-related liver disease is another growing concern. Prolonged alcohol consumption scars the liver, leading to cirrhosis a stage where damage is usually irreversible. Even moderate, long-term drinking can harm the liver, making moderation or abstinence vital for prevention.

4. Liver Cancer

In India, liver cancer is most often a result of chronic conditions like hepatitis or cirrhosis. Unfortunately, awareness remains low, and late detection makes treatment difficult. Regular screenings are essential for identifying risks early.

The Bottom Line

While liver diseases remain one of the leading causes of death in India, they are largely preventable with awareness and timely action. A balanced lifestyle, proper hygiene, vaccinations, and preventive health checkups go a long way in protecting liver health.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.