Ahmedabad Sees Significant Increase in Liver Transplants Amid Rising MASH Cases
Between 2021 and 2025, the Institute of Kidney Diseases and Research Centre (IKDRC) in Ahmedabad conducted a total of 367 liver transplants. These critical procedures are essential when a patient's liver fails and conventional medical treatments are no longer effective in sustaining life.
MASH Emerges as a Leading Cause of Liver Failure
An in-depth analysis by IKDRC specialists revealed that nearly one in four transplant recipients, accounting for 24%, suffered from chronic liver disease associated with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Dr Pranjal Modi, director of IKDRC and head of the liver transplantation programme, highlighted that MASH has been steadily increasing over recent years compared to traditional causes of liver failure.
"This year's World Liver Day theme, 'Solid habits, Strong liver,' delivers a crucial message, as the majority of cases at our facility are tied to lifestyle factors," Dr Modi stated. "Obesity is a primary concern, often coexisting with type-2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Consequently, managing liver failure becomes more intricate."
Transplant Numbers Surge in 2025
In 2025 alone, hospitals based in Ahmedabad performed over 100 liver transplants, a figure substantially higher than the annual average of the previous five years, according to medical experts. Other common reasons for liver failure include alcoholic liver disease, chronic hepatitis B and C leading to cirrhosis, and genetic factors.
Younger Patients Affected by MASH Trends
Dr Bhavin Vasavada, a liver and HPB surgeon at Shalby Hospital, noted a significant trend in recent years: a rise in MASH cases among relatively younger patients, frequently complicated by multiple coexisting illnesses. "This is a preventable condition through a balanced lifestyle. Liver failure often results from delayed diagnosis or interruptions in ongoing treatment. Therefore, timely medical intervention is strongly advised," he emphasized.
Vital Functions of the Liver and Preventive Measures
The liver, one of the largest internal organs, performs essential functions such as:
- Filtering toxins from the blood
- Metabolizing carbohydrates and fats
- Regulating blood sugar levels
- Storing vital vitamins and minerals
Dr Modi added that this year's World Liver Day theme should encourage individuals to focus on:
- Increasing consumption of fruits, vegetables, millets, and pulses
- Undergoing regular blood tests
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
"Within the Indian population, the prevalence of 'slim-fat' individuals is high, so weight alone should not serve as the sole indicator of health," he concluded.
