Fatty liver disease, once considered a minor lifestyle-related condition, is now emerging as a major public health concern with the potential to develop into liver cancer if left untreated. Raising alarm over this growing threat, the Delhi State Cancer Institute (DSCI), in collaboration with SPARE Society, observed Global Fatty Liver Day 2026 with a special awareness programme focused on prevention, early detection, and healthier living.

Held at the institute's auditorium on Thursday, the event brought together doctors, healthcare professionals, dietitians, nursing staff, and public health experts to discuss the increasing burden of fatty liver disease and its link to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer.

The programme began with an insightful lecture titled "Fatty Liver to HCC" by noted gastroenterologist and hepatology specialist Dr. Naresh Agrawal. He highlighted the rapid rise of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) and stressed that timely diagnosis and lifestyle changes can prevent the disease from progressing to severe liver damage, cirrhosis, and cancer.

Experts also participated in an interactive panel discussion that explored the latest challenges, treatment options, and preventive strategies for fatty liver disease. The discussion featured Dr. Pankaj Tyagi, Head of Gastroenterology at DSCI, Dr. Vasudha Goel, Gastroenterologist, and Ms. Anjuman, Dietician at DSCI. They emphasized the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving doctors, nutrition experts, and patients themselves to effectively manage the condition.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Pankaj Tyagi said that fatty liver disease is quickly becoming one of the most common liver disorders across the world.

"The encouraging part is that with early diagnosis, healthier lifestyle choices, and proper management of metabolic risk factors, we can significantly reduce the chances of progression to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Public awareness remains our most powerful weapon in prevention," he said.

Highlighting the importance of preventive healthcare, Dr. Savita Arora, Director of DSCI, said the observance of Global Fatty Liver Day reflects the institute's commitment to preventive oncology and public health.

"Scientific evidence increasingly shows a strong link between fatty liver disease and liver cancer. This makes awareness, routine screening, and early intervention more important than ever. Healthcare institutions have a vital role in educating communities and promoting healthy lifestyle practices," she said.

In his message, Dr. Ravinder Singh, Joint Director of DSCI, described the programme as an important platform for sharing knowledge and encouraging collaboration among healthcare professionals.

"By highlighting the connection between fatty liver disease and liver cancer, we hope to motivate both healthcare workers and the general public to take proactive steps towards better liver health," he said.

During the scientific session, experts identified obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, unhealthy eating habits, and lack of physical activity as the key drivers behind the rising cases of fatty liver disease. They noted that many cases can not only be prevented but also reversed through regular exercise, balanced nutrition, maintaining a healthy weight, and periodic health check-ups.

The event concluded with a strong call for greater public awareness, routine screening of high-risk individuals, and the integration of liver health initiatives into broader cancer prevention programmes. Participants also echoed this year's global campaign message — "Love Your Liver" — urging people to make healthier lifestyle choices and place liver health at the centre of their overall well-being.