With one in three adults in India affected by non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), Mumbai’s KEM Hospital is set to open a dedicated clinic to address the rising demand for specialized care. The clinic, operating every Friday, will provide tailored treatment plans focusing on dietary guidance, lifestyle modifications, and early interventions to manage the condition effectively.
The clinic’s inauguration, scheduled for January 20, will feature actor Amitabh Bachchan as part of the hospital’s centenary celebrations. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will inaugurate the five-day event, beginning January 18, and lay the foundation stone for a new 21-storey building to accommodate doctors and staff.
Dr. Akash Shukla, head of the Department of Gastroenterology, emphasized the growing prevalence of NAFLD, which was once seen as a disease of affluence but now affects people across demographics. “NAFLD is a lifestyle disease where diet plays a significant role. Early treatment can help prevent complications like liver cancer, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiac issues,” he said.
As reported by timesofindia, the clinic, staffed by five KEM faculty members, will offer diagnostic services, dietary advice, exercise plans, and evaluations for medical and surgical interventions. Dr. Shukla noted that the program may expand to additional days if patient demand increases.
Studies have reported a 16% prevalence of NAFLD among Mumbai residents, underscoring the need for specialized healthcare facilities. The new initiative aligns with KEM Hospital’s broader commitment to patient care and health awareness.