Fatty liver disease, once considered a condition affecting primarily adults, is becoming increasingly common among children and adolescents, prompting health experts to call for greater awareness and early intervention. Doctors warn that rising childhood obesity rates are driving a sharp increase in cases, making the condition one of the most prevalent chronic liver diseases in young people worldwide.According to medical experts, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), commonly known as fatty liver disease, now affects an estimated 5% to 10% of the global paediatric population.

The condition develops when excess fat accumulates in the liver and is closely associated with obesity, insulin resistance and other metabolic disorders. An Apollo doctor highlighted the growing concern, noting that the rise in childhood obesity has significantly contributed to the increasing number of cases. Global research indicates that obesity among children and adolescents increased from around 4% in 1975 to approximately 18% in 2016, creating a higher risk of metabolic diseases, including fatty liver.

India has also witnessed the trend. A school-based study involving overweight and obese children aged between 11 and 15 years found that nearly 62% had fatty liver disease despite showing no obvious symptoms. Other reports suggest that around 35% of Indian children may currently be affected, although prevalence estimates vary depending on the population studied. Doctors caution that fatty liver disease often progresses silently in its early stages. Many children remain symptom-free, allowing the condition to go unnoticed until routine health examinations or imaging tests reveal liver abnormalities.

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This makes regular health screening especially important for children who are overweight or have other risk factors. Medical experts also point out that many children diagnosed with fatty liver disease have additional metabolic problems such as insulin resistance, elevated triglyceride levels, high blood pressure and excess abdominal fat. These conditions can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease later in life if left untreated.

Although there is currently no specific medication approved for treating MASLD in children, specialists say lifestyle modification remains the most effective approach. A balanced diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the consumption of sugary drinks and highly processed foods can help reduce fat accumulation in the liver and improve overall metabolic health. Parents are encouraged to seek medical advice if their child is overweight, has a family history of metabolic disorders or has been diagnosed with conditions such as prediabetes or high cholesterol.

Early diagnosis through appropriate medical evaluation can help prevent progression to more serious liver damage. Health experts stress that preventing childhood obesity is central to reducing the burden of fatty liver disease. Encouraging healthy eating habits, limiting sedentary behaviour and promoting daily exercise can significantly lower the risk of developing the condition. With cases continuing to rise worldwide, doctors say awareness among parents, schools and healthcare providers will play a critical role in identifying at-risk children early and ensuring timely intervention before irreversible liver damage occurs.

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