Binge Drinking Greatly Increases Liver Risk: Dr Ram Kumar

India Grapples with Triple Threat of Liver Illnesses

Jamshedpur, April 20: India is facing a growing “triple burden” of liver diseases, with alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and viral hepatitis B and C accounting for nearly 95 percent of end-stage liver cases. Health experts warn that in advanced stages, liver transplant often remains the only treatment option, which is costly and not easily accessible to many patients.

On the occasion of World Liver Day, observed under the theme “Solid Habits, Strong Liver,” doctors highlighted that most liver diseases can be prevented through simple lifestyle changes.

Dr Ram Kumar, Managing Director and Head of Internal Medicine at Spand Multispeciality Hospital, Jamshedpur, said, “The liver is a very resilient organ, but continuous damage from alcohol, unhealthy diet, or infections can lead to serious complications. Prevention is always better than cure, especially in liver diseases.”

He emphasized that avoiding alcohol is the safest choice. “If one chooses to drink, it should be in strict moderation, with regular alcohol-free days. Binge drinking and consumption of spurious liquor significantly increase the risk of liver damage,” he said.

Dr Kumar also stressed the importance of maintaining a healthy weight. “A BMI between 18.5 and 23 is ideal for Indians. Even a small weight loss of 5 to 7 percent can reverse early fatty liver disease,” he noted.

Highlighting lifestyle measures, he added, “A balanced diet, regular exercise, and good control of blood sugar are essential. People should also get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B and avoid unsafe practices like sharing needles.”

Cautioning against self-medication, he said, “Unverified herbal remedies and even common medicines, if misused, can harm the liver.”

He concluded, “Regular check-ups, including liver function tests and ultrasound, help in early detection. With disciplined habits, the liver has an excellent capacity to heal and recover.”