Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Aug 24: Leading experts in gastroenterology and hepatology, led by Prof SP Singh, have convened in the national capital to finalise national guidelines for the prevention of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).
The expert meeting was held under the aegis of the Indian National Association for the Study of the Liver (INASL) and focused on developing a comprehensive, evidence-based framework to prevent MASLD at both individual and community levels.
The deliberations covered the burden of MASLD in India, India-specific risk factors and disease patterns, healthy dietary practices, physical activity, obesity and weight management, alcohol and tobacco consumption, screening strategies and prevention among people at high risk.
The proposed guidelines also highlighted the need for stronger public health interventions and community-based prevention programmes. Experts discussed strategies to address the growing influence of unhealthy food environments and industry practices on people's health.
Prof SP Singh said MASLD, formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), has emerged as a major public health challenge worldwide.
In India, the disease is estimated to affect nearly one in three people, making prevention an important healthcare priority. Experts expressed particular concern over the increasing detection of fatty liver and metabolic risk factors among children and young adults.
Prof Singh said the focus should shift from treating established liver disease to preventing MASLD and its associated metabolic complications at an early stage.
The national task force includes significant representation from Odisha, with at least nine experts from the state being part of the group.
Experts stressed that preventing MASLD requires coordinated action involving individuals, families, healthcare professionals, schools, communities and policymakers.
The INASL recommendations are expected to provide a practical roadmap for preventing MASLD in India, with emphasis on healthier lifestyles, early identification of high-risk individuals and community-level interventions.