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MASH: The Silent Liver Threat on the Rise
19 Apr
Summary
- Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis causes 24% of liver transplants.
- MASH cases are increasing among younger individuals with coexisting illnesses.
- Healthy lifestyle choices can prevent MASH-related liver failure.
The Institute of Kidney Diseases and Research Centre (IKDRC) reported performing 367 liver transplants between 2021 and 2025. Analysis revealed that 24% of these patients suffered from chronic liver disease attributed to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH).
According to IKDRC's director, MASH is becoming more prevalent than traditional causes of liver failure, often stemming from lifestyle choices like obesity, type-2 diabetes, and hypertension.
City hospitals saw over 100 liver transplants in 2025, exceeding the previous five-year average. Causes of liver failure also include alcoholic liver disease and hepatitis B and C.
Recent trends highlight an increase in MASH cases among younger patients, frequently complicated by multiple health issues. This condition is preventable through a balanced lifestyle, and timely medical intervention is strongly recommended.
Doctors advise focusing on fruits, vegetables, millets, and pulses, alongside regular blood tests and weight management. They caution that weight alone isn't a sole indicator, noting a high prevalence of 'slim-fat' individuals in India.
