The Union Health Ministry released revised operational guidelines and a training module aimed at improving care for people with Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The updated guidelines emphasize health promotion and early detection, a crucial element in managing this growing public health problem in India1✔ ✔Trustworthy source
Union Health Ministry releases revised operational guidelines and training manual on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
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NAFLD recognized as a major non-communicable disease in India
India has become a leader in recognizing NAFLD as an important non-communicable disease (NCD). The union’s health secretary, Apurva Chandra, highlighted that the disease is closely related to metabolic disorders as obesity, diabetesand cardiovascular diseases. “One in three people could be affected by NAFLD, demonstrating its significant impact,” Chandra said. The new guidelines advocate a multidisciplinary approach to patient care, aiming to integrate the efforts of healthcare providers from various disciplines. This holistic approach is expected to improve patient outcomes and care for those affected by NAFLD.
Focus on lifestyle modification for disease management
In addition to better detection and integrated care, the guidelines stress the importance of lifestyle modifications to reduce the prevalence of NAFLD. Chandra emphasized continuity of care for patients diagnosed with NCDs and emphasized the need to improve lifestyle choices to mitigate disease progression.
Grassroots implementation for early detection
Punya Salila Srivastava, Special Duty Officer, Union Health Ministry, said the updated guidelines aim to equip grassroots health workers with necessary tools for early detection, which will be crucial in reducing the burden of disease. .
India was the first country to integrate NAFLD into its National Program for Prevention and Control of NCDs in 2021. With the new guidelines, the country further strengthens its role in fighting the rising incidence of liver diseases. The ministry emphasized that NAFLD could soon emerge as a silent epidemic, with prevalence rates ranging between 9% and 32% in different demographic groups in the country.
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Reference:
- Union Health Ministry releases revised operational guidelines and training manual on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease – (https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2059351)
Source-IANS
