Chandigarh: As focus sharpens on the global surge in liver disease, Punjab has expanded its screening response and cashless treatment under the ‘Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna’.Health experts estimate that nearly one in three adults is affected by metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) – a condition that often develops without symptoms until advanced damage occurs.A Lancet study warns the burden could rise from 1.3 billion cases in 2023 to 1.8 billion by 2050, an increase of 42%. India reflects a similar pattern, with urban populations and high-risk groups showing rising prevalence.In Punjab, doctors say the challenge is intensifying due to a combination of hepatitis C infections, alcohol consumption, and rapidly changing diets.Dr Virendra Singh, director, Punjab Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (PILBS), said, “Alcohol remains one of the leading causes of severe liver damage in India and frequently worsens outcomes when combined with viral hepatitis. Fatty liver disease is now emerging as a major contributor alongside alcohol and hepatitis C. Long-term consumption of ultra-processed foods, deep-fried items and trans fats is accelerating the problem.“Doctors are also witnessing a worrying shift, where younger patients are increasingly presenting with liver conditions, driven by rising alcohol use and persistent hepatitis C transmission, reflecting changing behavioural and lifestyle patterns in the state.Dr Singh stated, “Punjab has strengthened its referral systems, enabling earlier detection of liver disease compared to previous years. Rural access to screening and specialist care has also improved, although late presentation remains common due to the largely silent progression of fatty liver disease.”To address financial and access barriers, the state has expanded coverage under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, which provides cashless treatment of up to Rs 10 lakh annually for all families in the govt and empanelled private hospitals.Dr Singh informs that when a patient is admitted, the majority of tests and medicines are covered under the scheme, reducing out-of-pocket expenses. The scheme covers diagnostics, hospitalisation and specialist care. He said the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna has helped many patients get better treatment and has been a game-changer for many.Punjab health minister Balbir Singh said, “The scheme reduces out-of-pocket expenditure, preventing delays in diagnosis and treatment.”Expanded screening under public health programmes is expected to improve early detection and slow disease progression. Experts stress that early-stage MASLD can often be reversed through lifestyle changes such as improved diet, regular physical activity and reduced alcohol intake.MSID:: 130352291 413 |
