Mumbai, April 19th, 2025: On World Liver Day 2025, the global health community is turning its focus to a critical yet often overlooked issue: liver health. This year’s theme, “Food is Medicine,” highlights the powerful link between nutrition and liver function. In India—where liver disease has reached alarming levels—the message carries even greater urgency.
World Liver Day is observed every year on April 19 to raise awareness about liver health and promote prevention strategies. With liver-related deaths rising worldwide, the emphasis on food as a tool for prevention and healing is both a wake-up call and a practical solution. According to current estimates, India records approximately 268,580 liver disease deaths each year, accounting for 3.17% of all deaths in the country. More strikingly, this represents 18.3% of global liver-related deaths, making India the highest contributor to liver disease fatalities worldwide.
Commenting on the situation, Dr. Aditya Verma, Consultant Gastroenterologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, said: “India is facing a silent epidemic of liver disease, and much of it is driven by what we eat. Everyday food choices can either fuel liver damage or support healing.” The leading causes of liver disease in India include fatty liver disease, hepatitis infections, alcohol-related liver damage, and lifestyle-related metabolic conditions. A major contributing factor is a poor diet—often high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
This year’s World Liver Day theme promotes simple, sustainable dietary changes, such as:
• Reducing intake of refined sugars, white flour, and fried foods
• Eating more whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes
• Choosing healthy fats like those in nuts, seeds, and olive oil
• Staying well-hydrated and limiting alcohol consumption
Dr. Aditya Verma, Consultant Gastroenterologist added, “Food is our first and most effective medicine. By shifting to a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, people can reduce their risk of liver disease—and in many cases, even reverse early-stage damage.” As liver diseases continue to rise across the country, medical experts are urging individuals to take control of their health through mindful eating. World Liver Day 2025 serves as a reminder that prevention often begins on our plates.
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