On August 1, 2025, Union Health and Family Welfare Minister JP Nadda informed the Lok Sabha that more than 84% of IT sector professionals in Hyderabad had metabolic syndrome associated with fatty liver disease. This was in response to the questions raised by Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi, who enquired about the preventative steps being taken by the government.
In a written response, Nadda stated, "As per the study published in Nature Scientific Reports Journal in 2025 titled 'Prevalence of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease among Informative Technology Employees in India' involving 345 IT employees in Hyderabad, Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) was present in 118 (34.20%) of the employees. A total of 280 (84.06%) employees had increased liver fat accumulation, which indicates a high prevalence of MAFLD among IT employees.
MAFLD stands for Metabolic (dysfunction)-associated fatty liver disease. It is defined by the presence of fatty liver and at least one metabolic risk factor. It emphasises the link between fatty liver and metabolic disorders, rather than focusing on the absence of other liver conditions or alcohol consumption.
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What Contributes To A Fatty Liver?
Fatty liver, also known as hepatic steatosis, occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver. While some fat is normal, too much can lead to inflammation and long-term damage. The most common cause of fatty liver is our modern lifestyle that combines a poor diet with physical inactivity. Add to that increased screen time, irregular meals, stress, and alcohol consumption, and you’ve successfully increased your risk of fatty liver disease.
Other than your lifestyle choices, certain health conditions also contribute to fatty liver. These include obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and even rapid weight loss.
It is important to note that being overweight does not necessarily increase your risk; even people who appear slim can develop what's known as lean NAFLD (Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease) due to internal metabolic imbalances.
Genetics can also play a role, i.e., if someone in your family has fatty liver disease or metabolic issues, your risk is higher.
How Common Is Fatty Liver In Young People?
It is important to know that fatty liver is no longer a condition associated only with older adults. It has also been diagnosed in young people, even teenagers and those in their twenties.
According toglobal estimates, about 25–30% of the general population may have NAFLD, and this number is steadily rising among younger age groups due to sedentary lifestyles, junk food habits, and rising obesity rates.
In India, recent studies have shown a disturbing trend: more young professionals and students in urban areas are being diagnosed during routine health checkups. The condition often progresses silently, without noticeable signs, making it more difficult to detect the condition early.
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Signs Of A Fatty Liver
Some of the common symptoms of fatty liver that you shouldn’t ignore include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Mild pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen
- Unexplained weight gain or trouble losing weight
- Elevated liver enzymes found in routine blood tests
- Skin changes like dark patches, especially around the neck
- Jaundice or yellowing of eyes and skin
How To Prevent Fatty Liver In Young Professionals
Preventing fatty liver does not require extreme changes; it starts with small, consistent habits. Here’s what works:
- Prioritise a balanced diet rich in fibre, lean protein, healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables.
- Cut back on sugary drinks, white bread, fried foods, and ultra-processed snacks.
- Exercise regularly
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Manage stress through breathing exercises, meditation, or short breaks during work.
- Sleep well
- Get regular health checkups
Conclusion
Fatty liver may not seem like a concern for young people; however, a recent rise among working professionals is indicative of how prevalent it has become. For young people navigating high-pressure jobs, erratic schedules, and digital distractions, it's important to understand that the condition is preventable and even reversible in its early stages. Taking simple, sustainable steps toward a healthier routine can go a long way in protecting your liver and your overall well-being.