Chandigarh:
On 19 April, 2026, PGIMER Chandigarh will join the global medical community in observing World Liver Day. This year’s theme, “Solid Habits, Strong Liver,” emphasizes that the health of this vital organ is determined by the consistent daily choices we make. *Globally, more than 1.5 billion individuals have underlying chronic liver disease. Driven by rising rates of obesity and high blood sugar, the prevalence of liver disease has increased by over 140% since 1990.
In India alone, around 2 in every 5 adults have underlying metabolic-dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The burden of alcohol-related liver disease and chronic viral hepatitis is also quite high in Chandigarh and its neighbouring states. “Fortunately, all the common causes of liver disease namely MASLD, alcohol-related liver disease and viral hepatitis are completely preventable with sustained adoption of a healthy life-style. Thus, solid habits form the foundation stone to a strong liver” said Prof Ajay Duseja, Head, Dept of Hepatology, PGIMER, Chandigarh.
The liver is often called the body’s metabolic factory and industrial powerhouse, performing over 500 vital functions including detoxification, energy storage, and nutrient processing. “However, it is also a silent sufferer. Many liver conditions show no symptoms until they reach advanced stages. This is why World Liver Day, 2026 is focusing on building ‘Solid Habits’ today to prevent the crises of tomorrow,” said Dr Arka De, Associate Professor in the Dept of Hepatology, PGIMER, Chandigarh. He emphasised that there are six pillars for ensuring a “strong liver”
Eat Well: Prioritize a diet rich in fibre, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Reduce intake of processed foods and hidden sugars, which are the primary drivers of fat accumulation in the liver and other metabolic health complications like diabetes and hypertension.
Move More: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week. Even small increases in movement can significantly reduce liver fat and improve metabolic health. Non-exercise activity is also helpful. Yoga is also beneficial and in a recent study, we have demonstrated the utility of yoga in patients with MASLD, said Dr Sunil Taneja, Additional Professor, Dept of Hepatology, PGIMER, Chandigarh.
No alcohol: Alcohol remains a leading cause of cirrhosis i.e. liver scarring. Reducing or eliminating alcohol intake is the most direct way to allow the liver to repair itself. No amount of alcohol is “safe” or “healthy” , emphasised Dr Arka De, Associate Professor, Dept of Hepatology, PGIMER, Chandigarh . Daily drinking and binge drinking are particularly harmful and should be particularly avoided.
Screen Early: Because liver disease is often asymptomatic, regular check-ups are critical—especially for individuals with risk factors such as Type 2 diabetes, high BMI, or high cholesterol and for detecting asymptomatic HBV and HCV infections.
Vaccination : The Hepatitis B vaccination has been part of the national vaccination schedule for almost two decades. Raising awareness is key to ensure universal coverage with Hepatitis B vaccine. Vaccines are now also available for Hepatitis A and Hepatitis E viruses which are important causes of jaundice and acute liver failure in India.
Holistic healthy lifestyle : Say NO to smoking and unsafe practices like unprotected sexual intercourse and intravenous drug use. Adequate sleep is also important for a healthy liver and indeed a healthy life, said *Prof Ajay Duseja.
In observance of World Liver Day, 2026, the Department of Hepatology will be conducting a “ Liver Health Education and Screening Camp” for health care workers including faculty, resident doctors, nursing officers and technicians of PGIMER, Chandigarh for 1 month from 16th April till 14th May, said Prof Ajay Duseja.
Those wishing to get them screened will be tested for HBV and HCV infections and will undergo liver elastography for fat and fibrosis in the liver. The knowledge, attitude and practices of health care workers are fundamental for shaping the habits and health-related choices in the community. Moreover, viral hepatitis screening and ensuring adequate immunisation against Hepatitis B is also vital in health-care workers because of the risk of occupational exposure, said Dr Arka De.
To conclude, the vast majority of liver disease is preventable. By turning simple lifestyle actions into solid habits, we can collectively reverse the trend of rising liver disease and build a healthier future for our community.
