The Union Health Ministry has released revised Operational Guidelines and a Training Module for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). These documents aim to enhance patient care and outcomes by providing evidence-based practices for healthcare providers. A press release marking this event was issued on September 27, 2024.
Addressing the launch event, the Union Health Secretary emphasized India’s leadership in recognizing NAFLD as a major non-communicable disease (NCD). He highlighted the rapid increase in NAFLD cases, often linked to metabolic disorders like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
He also emphasized the importance of the revised guidelines and training modules in providing a framework for healthcare workers at all levels. He stressed the need for a continuum of care for individuals with NCDs and underscored the importance of lifestyle modifications to reduce the prevalence of NAFLD.
The Officer on Special Duty, Union Health Ministry also emphasized the need for these guidelines to reach grassroots workers for early disease detection and reduced NAFLD burden. She highlighted the significance of the training module in building the capacity of healthcare professionals to address the rising NCD burden in India.
The Director of the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS), noted that the release of these documents is a crucial step in improving liver health and addressing the link between NAFLD and other NCDs like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
Key Points of the Release
NAFLD is becoming a major public health concern in India, with a prevalence ranging from 9% to 32%.
India was the first country to integrate NAFLD into the National Programme for Prevention and Control of NCDs in 2021.
The revised guidelines focus on health promotion, early detection, and a multidisciplinary approach to NAFLD care.
The training module equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to identify, manage, and prevent NAFLD, particularly at the primary level.
The release of these guidelines and training modules marks a significant step towards improving the management of NAFLD in India and ensuring better health outcomes for patients.
