Rising Cases of MASLD Among IT Professionals in India: Causes, Screening, and Solutions

Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), formerly known as Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), is emerging as a significant health concern among Information Technology (IT) professionals in India. A recent study by the University of Hyderabad found that 84% of IT employees suffer from MASLD, with 71% being obese and 34% having metabolic syndrome—a combination of conditions that increase the risk of fatty liver, diabetes, and hypertension (Livemint).

Why IT Professionals Are at Risk

The high prevalence of MASLD in IT professionals is due to multiple lifestyle factors:

1. Sedentary Work: Sitting for long hours with minimal physical activity reduces metabolism, leading to fat accumulation in the liver.
   
2. Poor Diet: Consumption of high-calorie, processed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages is common in the IT sector.
   
3. Chronic Stress: Work-related stress leads to hormonal imbalances that contribute to insulin resistance and fat deposition.
   
4. Irregular Sleep Patterns: Sleep deprivation impacts liver metabolism and increases the risk of metabolic disorders.

How Screening Can Help

Since MASLD is often asymptomatic, early detection is crucial. Regular screening can help identify the condition before it progresses to severe liver disease. Recommended tests include:

Liver Function Tests (LFTs): To check for enzyme levels indicating liver stress.

Ultrasound or FibroScan: Non-invasive imaging techniques to detect liver fat accumulation.

Lipid Profile & Blood Sugar Tests: To assess associated metabolic risks like diabetes and high cholesterol.

Solutions: Preventing and Managing MASLD

Addressing MASLD requires lifestyle modifications:

1. Incorporate Physical Activity:
   
   At least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, such as brisk walking or cycling.Simple workplace strategies like standing desks or short movement breaks every hour.
   
   
2. Adopt a Healthy Diet:
   
   Increase fiber intake with vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
   Reduce processed foods, trans fats, and sugary drinks.
   Opt for healthy fats like nuts, seeds, and olive oil.
   
   
3. Manage Stress and Sleep:
   
   Practice meditation or yoga to reduce stress.
   Ensure 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night.
   
   
4. Regular Health Check-ups:
   
   Annual screening for liver health can detect MASLD early.
   Consultation with a nutrition

As a specialist, I have seen an increasing number of IT professionals diagnosed with MASLD due to lifestyle-related risk factors. The good news is that MASLD is preventable and even reversible if detected early. Regular screenings, dietary modifications, increased physical activity, and stress management are the keys to maintaining liver health. IT professionals must prioritize their well-being by making small but consistent lifestyle changes. By taking proactive steps today, we can prevent MASLD from progressing into severe liver disease, ensuring a healthier future for the workforce and society at large.