Dry state? Alcohol consumption behind 60% of liver failure in Gujarat patients
A clear gap between the claims and reality of the ‘dry state’
Updated: Oct 1st, 2023
The prevalence of liver failure is on the rise in Gujarat, a state historically known for its prohibition policy on alcohol.
Recent data reveals that alcohol consumption, despite the state’s ‘dry’ status, is a significant contributing factor, alongside obesity, in approximately 60% of documented liver failure cases within the region. Additionally, there is a concerning uptick in liver failure cases among the younger population.
Over the past 15 years, the Institute of Kidney Disease and Research Center (IKDRC) situated within the Civil Hospital premises in Ahmedabad has conducted approximately 600 liver transplants. Tragically, over 30% of these patients, numbering around 200 individuals, have succumbed to their medical conditions.
Approximately 186 transplants were done in the year 2022.
60% of cases tracked back to alcoholism and obesity
Dr. Pranjal Modi, vice chancellor of University Transplant Science and head of the liver transplant department, has pointed out a concerning trend. He noted that a significant majority, specifically 60%, of liver failure cases presenting at the institution can be traced back to factors such as alcohol consumption and obesity.
Additionally, a small number of cases have been linked to congenital, viral, or infectious diseases like hepatitis. Furthermore, our erratic modern lifestyles are contributing to the rising incidence of liver failure.
“Factors such as fast food, fatty foods, and lack of exercise lead to obesity, which in turn causes more and more damage to the body. Even if every person takes only 1 hour for his health and family, the case of liver failure can be controlled,” added Dr Modi.
He also added that even after liver transplant, many patients do not follow a diet and that causes harm to them. For children, parents should reduce the consumption of packaged food and fast food.
The rise in liver ailments
The initial phase of liver damage is commonly referred to as ‘fibrosis’. However, when an individual who abstains from alcohol but indulges in a diet laden with oil, ghee, and spices experiences liver issues, it’s termed ‘cirrhosis of the liver’.
Notably, Gujarat is witnessing a surge in patients grappling with various liver conditions, including liver failure and fatty liver.
Medical experts assert that this uptick can be attributed to modern lifestyles, dietary choices, the absence of structured diets, and alcohol consumption, all of which are anticipated to contribute to a growing number of individuals grappling with liver ailments in the future.
For people under 30, the rise in liver ailment is mostly attributed to alcohol consumption and unhealthy diet.
For more such updates and news on the go, follow us on
