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On the occasion of Global Fatty Liver Day, experts at a public awareness seminar held at Bangladesh Medical University’s Super-Specialized Hospital revealed that approximately 45 million people in the country are affected by fatty liver disease. Of these, at least 10 million are at risk of developing liver cirrhosis or cancer. The rising prevalence of this condition is attributed to excessive consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods, lack of physical activity, and inadequate lifestyle changes.
The seminar, themed “Eat Less, Walk More, Keep Fatty Liver at Bay,” highlighted that fatty liver has surpassed viral hepatitis as a major health concern. Experts noted that the condition not only causes liver inflammation but also impairs insulin function, increasing the risk of diabetes and heart disease. One in every three adults in Bangladesh is affected by fatty liver, and without proper diagnosis and management, it can progress to severe stages, leading to liver cirrhosis and cancer.
Speaking as the chief guest, Professor Dr. ASM Matiur Rahman, former health advisor to the caretaker government and Fellow of the Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, warned, “We are facing a grave crisis. Fatty liver has overtaken viral hepatitis, yet we continue to neglect it as a silent disease. This is not just an individual issue but a threat to the economy, society, and the health security of future generations.” He emphasized the need for a multi-sectoral approach, including changes in food policy, urban planning, and education systems.
Dr. Md. Golam Azam, a liver specialist at BIRDEM Hospital and the keynote speaker, stated, “For too long, we’ve underestimated fatty liver. It is now a root cause of diabetes, heart attacks, and even cancer. The problem is that 90% of patients are unaware of their condition because it shows no symptoms until significant liver damage occurs.”
Professor Dr. Shahinul Alam, Vice-Chancellor of Bangladesh Medical University and President of the Hepatology Society, added, “Without environments that promote walking and physical activity in schools, universities, offices, and homes, medication and awareness alone won’t suffice. We need to make nutritious food accessible and discourage the consumption of foods high in trans fats, sugar, and salt.”
Experts stressed that individuals who sit for more than five hours daily, consume fast food, and engage in minimal physical activity are at the highest risk. They urged for greater awareness, regular screening, healthier diets, and policy-level interventions to prevent the escalating burden of fatty liver disease, warning that failure to act could lead to a severe health crisis for future generation.
AI/MR
