Doctors Warn Half of Pakistani Adults May Be Affected
Leading gastroenterologists have warned that nearly 50 percent of Pakistani adults may be suffering from fatty liver disease. Health experts say unhealthy eating habits, obesity, and lack of physical activity are the main reasons behind the growing crisis.
The warning was issued during the 8th Annual Conference of the Pakistan GI and Liver Disease Society. The conference focused on improving gastrointestinal and liver healthcare in Pakistan.
Medical specialists stated that fatty liver disease has now reached epidemic levels in the country. Experts also revealed that the condition is increasingly affecting children and even individuals with normal body weight.
Fatty Liver Disease Can Progress Without Symptoms
Doctors explained that fatty liver disease, now medically known as Metabolically Dysregulated Steatotic Liver Disease, can silently damage the liver if left untreated. Many patients remain unaware of the condition until serious complications develop.
Experts warned that the disease can lead to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. It also increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other metabolic disorders.
Lubna Kamani, President of the Pakistan GI and Liver Disease Society, said rising obesity and unhealthy lifestyles are driving chronic liver disease cases across Pakistan. She also expressed concern over the increasing number of colorectal cancer cases among younger individuals.
Dr Kamani highlighted that delayed screenings, financial limitations, and lack of awareness are preventing timely diagnosis and treatment. She also pointed out the shortage of qualified female gastroenterologists in Pakistan, which creates additional challenges for women seeking medical care.
Experts Urge Healthier Diet and Regular Exercise
Former PGLDS president Sajjad Jamil said fatty liver disease has become a global health emergency and is rapidly spreading in Pakistan. He warned that poor dietary habits and lack of exercise are putting even lean individuals at risk.
Doctors advised the public to reduce junk food consumption, increase physical activity, and maintain healthy body weight to prevent liver disease progression. Experts also encouraged patients to seek treatment only from qualified medical professionals.
During the conference, specialists discussed several gastrointestinal and liver diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease and Hepatitis B. Medical experts also highlighted the growing role of modern weight-loss medicines such as Semaglutide in managing obesity, diabetes, and fatty liver disease.
Health professionals stressed that early diagnosis and lifestyle changes remain the most effective ways to reduce the growing burden of liver disease in Pakistan.
