Navi Mumbai, Jan. 10: Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai (AHNM) has inaugurated a state-of-the-art 12-bedded Liver Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to address the rising prevalence of liver diseases in India. This facility, the first of its kind in the Navi Mumbai region, is equipped to manage conditions such as acute liver failure, chronic liver diseases, and post-transplant recovery, reinforcing Apollo Hospitals’ position as a leader in liver care.
Alarming Liver Disease Statistics
India accounts for 18.3% of global liver disease-related deaths, with chronic liver disease (CLD) being a significant contributor. Factors driving this include alcohol use, viral hepatitis (HBV and HCV), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and genetic disorders. Over 40 million Indians are infected with hepatitis B, resulting in approximately 600,000 deaths annually. Hepatitis C accounts for 32% of liver cancer and 20% of cirrhosis cases, while hepatitis E poses risks, especially for pregnant women.
Rising Demand for Advanced Liver Care
Acute liver failure caused by viral infections and drug toxicity, particularly hepatitis E in adults and hepatitis A in children, adds to the liver disease burden. With 200,000 new cases of end-stage liver disease annually and a demand for 25,000 liver transplants, early detection and specialized care are crucial.
Expert Insights
Dr. Amey Sonavane, Consultant in Gastroenterology and Hepatology at AHNM, highlighted the growing challenge of liver disorders, affecting 1 in 5 adults in India. “Poor diet, alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyles, viral infections, and genetic conditions contribute to fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis,” he said.
Dr. Guruprasad Shetty, Lead of HPB and Liver Transplantation Surgery, emphasized the critical need for specialized care. “Unlike kidney failure, there is no machine to replicate liver function. Advanced liver care is essential. Our Liver ICU is a vital step in addressing this gap. AHNM has performed over 215 liver transplants with a 90% success rate,” he shared.
This initiative underscores AHNM’s commitment to improving liver health outcomes through cutting-edge facilities and expert care.
