Nearly 4 in 10 Adults in India May Have Fatty Liver Disease, Study Reveals Alarming Trend

New Delhi, February 23, 2026: A new large-scale study has revealed that nearly 40% of adults in India, including residents of Delhi, may be affected by Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), a condition previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

The findings, published in The Lancet Regional Health – Southeast Asia, highlight a growing public health concern linked not only to alcohol consumption but also to obesity, diabetes, and metabolic disorders.

Disease Often Progresses Silently

One of the most alarming aspects of MASLD is that it frequently develops without noticeable symptoms. By the time it is diagnosed, significant liver damage may already have occurred.

The study analyzed participants from 27 cities across India and found that 38.9% showed signs of fatty liver. Of these, 6.3% exhibited liver fibrosis — an early stage of permanent scarring that can progress to cirrhosis or even liver cancer if left untreated.

Delhi and Other Cities Show High Prevalence

The situation in Delhi appears particularly concerning. According to the study:

• 41.3% of participants in Delhi showed signs of fatty liver
• 4.5% displayed indicators of liver fibrosis

In some cities, the numbers were even higher. Bhopal recorded a prevalence rate of 51.8%, while Srinagar reported 54.4%.

Not Just a Disease of the Obese

Experts involved in the study noted that MASLD is not limited to individuals who are visibly overweight. Several participants with normal Body Mass Index (BMI) were also found to have fatty liver.

Specialists attribute this to visceral fat — fat stored deep inside the abdomen around internal organs. Unlike subcutaneous fat, visceral fat is not always visible externally but significantly increases metabolic risk.

A Growing Public Health Concern

Doctors warn that with rising rates of sedentary lifestyles, processed food consumption, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, India may face a surge in advanced liver diseases in the coming years.

Early screening, lifestyle modification, weight management, regular exercise, and better diabetes control are considered crucial to preventing long-term complications.

The study underscores the urgent need for nationwide awareness and preventive healthcare strategies to combat what experts describe as a “silent epidemic” affecting millions across the country.