Fatty Liver In Children disease affects one in three children in India. Learn from an expert how silent signs can be deciphered and how lifestyle interventions can help prevent and treat fatty liver disease in children.
Did you know that one in three children in India is affected by fatty liver disease? A recent study by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, found that 35% of Indian children suffer from metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). This condition, previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, was renamed to avoid the stigma tied to alcohol use.
Fatty Liver In Children: Alarmingly, these numbers are much higher than the global average of 25%. A similar study published two years ago in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hepatology confirmed the trend, showing that 35.4% of Indian children had MASLD. This growing prevalence calls for urgent attention and awareness pertinent to prevention and recognising signs. To shed light on the same, we at OnlyMyHealth connected with an expert,
What Is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease?
Fatty Liver In Children:“Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver condition caused by excessive fat accumulation in the liver. Once considered an exclusive adult health issue, an increasing number of children are now being diagnosed with NAFLD.”
He further explains that it has now become the most common liver disease in the United States due to its close association with obesity, and its prevalence is also rising among Indian children.
How To Decipher Silent Symptoms Of Fatty Liver In Children?
The most challenging aspect of this disease is its silent nature. Many children do not exhibit any symptoms until significant liver damage has occurred. Occasionally, children may feel weak, tire easily, or experience pain in the right upper part of their abdomen.
Jaundice may be a late manifestation of NAFLD, and it should also be suspected in children who are obese, experience unexplained weight gain, or have insulin resistance. Children with a strong family history of NAFLD, type 2 Diabetes mellitus, or metabolic syndrome are at a higher risk of developing this condition.
How Is Fatty Liver Diagnosed In Children?
Blood tests, such as liver function tests, ultrasound of the liver with shear wave elastography, and magnetic resonance elastography (MRE), are some of the modalities used to diagnose NAFLD. In some cases, a liver biopsy may be necessary to diagnose and assess the severity of the disease.
5 Expert Tips For Practical Prevention
A landmark study showed that lifestyle changes can reverse early-stage fatty liver disease in 70% of paediatric cases. Corroborating the same, Dr. Kadam shared the following tips for prevention among children.
- A multifaceted approach is recommended to manage this condition. Lifestyle interventions are the most important aspect and currently the only successful treatment for NAFLD in children.
- Increased physical activity with supervised exercise training, at least three times a week, leading to weight loss, has been shown to significantly reduce liver fat content.
- Dietary intervention in the form of a well-balanced diet low in fats and animal proteins but rich in fibre and antioxidants is one of the cornerstones of NAFLD treatment.
- Limiting processed food and sugary beverages is particularly important in the management of this condition.
By understanding the silent signs and adopting proactive health strategies, parents can significantly mitigate the risks of liver disease in children.
Takeaway For Parents
Fatty liver disease in children is a growing concern in India, but the good news is that with the right approach, it can be managed and even reversed. A combination of regular physical activity, supervised exercise, and a balanced diet rich in fibre and antioxidants, while cutting down on processed foods and sugary drinks, is key.
Fatty Liver In Children: By adopting these lifestyle changes, early-stage fatty liver disease can be reversed in a significant number of cases. Proactive steps today can ensure a healthier future for your children.
