Can’t blame booze alone for surge in liver disease: Experts

In the run-up to World Liver Day (April 19), leading specialists at the annual GI Rendezvous here sounded a clear warning that liver disease was no longer confined to alcohol use, with unhealthy lifestyles and metabolic disorders emerging as major drivers, particularly among the youth in Punjab.

The academic forum, held earlier this week, revolved around “Solid habits, strong liver”, and underscored the urgent need for preventive care through sustainable lifestyle changes.

Speaking to The Tribune on the sidelines of the annual conference, hepatologist Dr Navin Ganjoo highlighted the growing burden of non-alcoholic fatty liver

disease (NAFLD).

“There is a common misconception that liver damage is largely alcohol induced. In reality, we are seeing a sharp rise in fatty liver linked to obesity, diabetes, and sedentary lifestyles,” he said.

He added that early stages were often silent, making routine screening crucial.

Liver transplant surgeon Dr Sonal Asthana pointed to an alarming trend among younger patients.

“We are increasingly encountering individuals in their 30s and 40s with advanced liver disease. Poor dietary habits, lack of exercise, and rising stress levels are accelerating the progression,” she said.

She added that timely intervention and lifestyle correction could prevent many cases from reaching transplant stage. Hepatobiliary surgeon Dr Adarsh Chaudhary delved into the broad spectrum of liver and biliary disorders. “Conditions affecting the pancreas and bile ducts are on the rise, often intertwined with metabolic syndromes. Punjab, with its changing food patterns and high calorie diets, is particularly vulnerable,” he said, advocating for a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.

Adding to the discussion, gastroenterologist Dr Gurbilas P Singh emphasised the need for public awareness and early diagnosis.

“Liver disease often progresses unnoticed until it becomes severe. Awareness campaigns, especially targeting the youth, are essential to promote healthy habits and timely medical consultation,” he said. The experts collectively underlined that Punjab was witnessing a concerning rise in liver-related ailments, driven by a combination of dietary excess, physical inactivity, and increasing incidence of diabetes.

They opined that balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and routine health check-ups could significantly reduce the burden of liver disease. As the state prepares to observe World Liver Day, the message from the medical community is clear: Prevention, through disciplined daily habits, is the most effective cure.