Junk Food is Causing Fatty Liver in Children - Top 4 Risk Factors

Imagine taking your child for a routine check-up, only to hear that they have fatty liver disease. As a parent, it might be very shocking and overwhelming. But this is becoming a harsh reality for many parents today. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in kids is rising at an alarming rate, making it one of the most common chronic liver diseases in children.

Why is this happening? The answer lies in our lifestyle. Excessive junk food consumption, lack of physical activity, and poor eating habits are leading causes of fatty liver in children. Today's kids consume more sugary drinks, processed foods, and unhealthy snacks than ever. Combine this with long hours of screen time and minimal exercise, and you have a perfect recipe for liver damage.

This blog will help you understand the causes of fatty liver in children, early warning signs, and how to prevent it. Let’s take action before it’s too late!

What is Fatty Liver Disease?

Fatty liver disease, medically known as steatotic liver disease (SLD), is characterised by excess fat accumulation in liver cells. 

While it's normal for the liver to contain some fat, it signifies fatty liver disease when it comprises more than 5% to 10% of the liver's weight. This condition can impair liver function and lead to more severe liver complications if left unaddressed.1

Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD): Previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), MASLD occurs in individuals who consume little to no alcohol. It's often associated with metabolic conditions such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.2 

Statistics on Pediatric Fatty Liver Disease

Global Prevalence of Pediatric NAFLD

NAFLD has become the most common liver disease among children and adolescents globally. Studies estimate that it affects approximately 7.6% of the general pediatric population. However, the prevalence rises dramatically among obese children, with over 30% affected.3

A systematic review and meta-analysis highlighted that the prevalence of NAFLD in children and adolescents has increased from 19.34 million in 1990 to 29.49 million in 2017, representing an annual increase of 1.35% regardless of sex, age, or region.

Pediatric NAFLD in India

In India, the prevalence of pediatric NAFLD is alarmingly high. A study found that about one in three (35%) suffer from metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), the updated term for NAFLD in children. 

Further research indicates that the prevalence of fatty liver among overweight children in India is 45.6%, nearly double that of normal-weight children at 18.9%. The prevalence increases with age, from 13.1% in 5-6-year-olds to 31% in 9-10-year-olds.4

Hospitalization Rates and Trends

Data on hospitalization rates for pediatric NAFLD are limited. However, a study analyzing data from 2009 to 2018 revealed that the incidence of NAFLD diagnoses in children aged 9 to 18 increased from 36.0 per 100,000 in 2009 to 58.2 per 100,000 in 2018. This significant rise underscores the growing burden of NAFLD among the pediatric population.

Causes of Fatty Liver in Children

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