Mangaluru: Fatty liver disease, once considered rare among children, is now emerging as a growing public health concern in the paediatric population, doctors in Mangaluru have cautioned. The trend, highlighted on the occasion of World Liver Day, points to a steady increase in cases over the past decade, largely driven by lifestyle changes and rising obesity levels among children.

Dr Swathi Rao, consultant paediatric intensivist at KMC Hospital, said that cases in the region have risen by nearly 10% over the last ten years. Current estimates suggest that between 5% and 10% of children in the general population may be affected, with some studies indicating that nearly one in ten children could have fatty liver disease.

Higher risk among overweight children

Doctors note that the prevalence is significantly higher among overweight and obese children, where it ranges between 30% and 50%. This sharp increase is particularly concerning as it signals a shift in what was traditionally viewed as an adult health condition.

“We are increasingly seeing fatty liver in younger age groups. In some cases, early changes are being detected in children as young as six to seven years, although it remains more common among those aged 12 to 18,” Dr Rao said.

Medical experts attribute the rise primarily to increasing rates of childhood obesity, a trend that accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prolonged indoor stays, reduced physical activity, and greater dependence on digital devices have contributed to unhealthy lifestyle patterns.

Lifestyle factors driving the trend

According to doctors, sedentary routines combined with unhealthy dietary habits have created what they describe as a “double burden” on children’s metabolic health. High intake of sugary beverages, junk food, and ultra-processed items is leading to excessive fat accumulation in the liver.

“Low levels of physical activity, along with poor diet choices, are major contributors. These factors are now commonly seen in children across urban and semi-urban settings,” Dr Rao explained.

The situation is further compounded by increased screen time, which not only reduces opportunities for physical activity but also influences eating habits and sleep patterns.

Silent progression and symptoms

One of the key challenges in addressing fatty liver disease is its silent progression. In many cases, children may not exhibit noticeable symptoms in the early stages, allowing the condition to go undetected for years.

When symptoms do appear, they may include persistent fatigue, mild abdominal discomfort, increased abdominal fat, and darkening of the skin around the neck — a sign often associated with insulin resistance.

Doctors warn that without timely intervention, the condition can progress to more serious liver damage.

Long-term health risks

Dr Anurag Shetty, consultant in medical gastroenterology at KMC Hospital, emphasised that fatty liver disease is closely linked with other metabolic disorders. These include obesity, high cholesterol, elevated triglycerides, diabetes, and hypertension.

“If left unchecked, fatty liver disease can lead to severe complications such as cirrhosis and even liver cancer,” he said.

He also highlighted that individuals with the condition are at a higher risk of cardiovascular problems, including heart attacks, heart failure, and strokes. This makes early diagnosis and management crucial, particularly among high-risk groups.

Need for early screening and awareness

Experts have called for increased awareness and targeted screening, especially among children who are overweight or have underlying conditions such as diabetes. Early detection can help prevent progression and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Dr Shetty stressed the importance of public health initiatives and community outreach programmes to address the issue. “Greater awareness is essential. Messaging through schools, social platforms, and healthcare systems must promote healthier diets and active lifestyles,” he said.

Preventive measures and conclusion

Doctors underline that while the rising trend is concerning, fatty liver disease is largely preventable and reversible in its early stages. Simple lifestyle changes can make a significant difference.

They recommend that children engage in at least one hour of physical activity daily, limit screen time to one to two hours, and avoid screen exposure entirely for toddlers. A balanced diet with reduced intake of processed foods and sugary drinks is also crucial.

The growing incidence of fatty liver disease among children in Mangaluru serves as a warning sign of broader lifestyle-related health challenges. Experts stress that timely intervention, combined with sustained awareness efforts, can help reverse the trend and safeguard the long-term health of the younger population.