World Liver Day tomorrow: 65% of obese children suffer from fatty liver

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A recent study reveals that 65% of obese children aged between 9 and 12 in Kerala have Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Among overweight children in the same age group, 35% were also diagnosed with fatty liver. Overweight children are defined as those with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 25 and 29.9, while those with a BMI of 30 or more are considered obese. The findings come from a study conducted since 2020 by the Pediatric Gastroenterology Department of S.A.T. Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram.

Unhealthy eating habits, lack of exercise, and excessive use of TV and mobile phones are the main culprits. Fatty liver, if left untreated, can progress to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer, ultimately requiring a liver transplant. While in adults, fatty liver is often linked to alcohol and other harmful habits, in children, it is mostly due to lifestyle factors. Fatty liver can be prevented through a healthy diet. This year’s World Liver Day message is: “Food is medicine.”

In the state, the only pediatric gastroenterology department in the government sector is at S.A.T Hospital. Over the past 10 years, 526 children have been diagnosed there with chronic liver diseases. Of these, 95 had severe conditions, and 60 required liver transplants.

Children who sought treatment for liver & abdominal issues at S.A.T. (Last 5 years):

2020: 1,307 (COVID period)
2021: 2,858 (COVID period)
2022: 3,883
2023: 4,366
2024: 4,260
2025 (up to March): 1,100

Symptoms of fatty liver in children:

• Fatigue, discomfort or pain in the upper right side of the abdomen
• Nausea, weight loss, and sometimes jaundice
• Often, symptoms appear only when the disease has progressed

Prevention tips:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins
• Reduce sugar intake; limit sugary drinks and sweets
• Avoid fried and oily foods
• Ensure at least one hour of daily physical activity
• Limit screen time (TV, mobile, computer)
• Maintain a healthy weight appropriate for the child’s age and height

"It is the responsibility of parents to ensure proper nutrition, provide opportunities for physical activity, and protect children from fatty liver disease."
— Dr. Prashanth K.S.,
Associate Professor,
Pediatric Gastroenterology,
S.A.T. Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram