Fatty Liver is the New Diabetes: Dr Jayakrishnan B Highlights Emerging Metabolic Epidemic at International Conclave

During his presentation, he highlighted that fatty liver disease is no longer merely a liver disorder but a *multisystem metabolic disease* closely linked with diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and metabolic syndrome.

The growing global burden of fatty liver disease took center stage at the prestigious *13th Hello Diabetes Academia (HDA) International Conclave 2026, held at Hotel Centre Point, Nagpur. Among the invited national faculty, **Dr. Jayakrishnan B, renowned metabolic physician from Tirur, Kerala, delivered an impactful lecture titled *"Future Paradigms in MASLD"*, emphasizing that *"Fatty Liver is the New Diabetes of the 21st Century."**

Dr. Jayakrishnan, who serves at *Educare Institute, Tirur, and **AVS Charitable Hospital, Kottakkal, addressed delegates from across India on the rapidly evolving understanding of **Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)*, the condition formerly known as Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD).

During his presentation, he highlighted that fatty liver disease is no longer merely a liver disorder but a *multisystem metabolic disease* closely linked with diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and metabolic syndrome. According to Dr. Jayakrishnan, the prevalence of MASLD has increased dramatically in recent years, particularly in India, where urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and unhealthy dietary patterns have fueled a silent epidemic.

> "A decade ago, diabetes was the most visible metabolic challenge. Today, fatty liver disease is emerging as an equally significant public health threat. Every person with diabetes should be considered at risk for fatty liver, and every patient with fatty liver should be screened for diabetes and metabolic complications," he remarked.

The session explored the latest international nomenclature changes, advanced non-invasive diagnostic tools such as *FIB-4 scoring, **FibroScan, and **enhanced liver fibrosis assessments*, which are increasingly replacing liver biopsy for risk stratification. Dr. Jayakrishnan stressed the importance of early identification of liver fibrosis in high-risk individuals, particularly those with type 2 diabetes.

A major focus of the lecture was the paradigm shift in treatment strategies. He reviewed recent advances in pharmacotherapy, including the landmark approval of *Semaglutide* for patients with non-cirrhotic MASH and significant liver fibrosis. He explained how modern therapies targeting insulin resistance, obesity, inflammation, and fibrosis are transforming the management landscape and offering new hope to millions of patients.

Dr. Jayakrishnan also emphasized lifestyle intervention as the cornerstone of therapy, advocating sustainable weight reduction, regular physical activity, healthy nutrition, and early metabolic screening. He urged clinicians to move beyond treating isolated diseases and adopt a comprehensive metabolic approach.

The audience responded enthusiastically to the session, which combined evidence-based medicine with practical clinical insights. Delegates appreciated the clarity with which complex concepts were translated into actionable strategies for everyday practice.

Dr. Jayakrishnan is widely respected for his contributions to metabolic medicine and diabetes care. He is also the author of the acclaimed book *"Harmony of Health: Navigating Diabetes and Liver Wellness,"* which explores the interconnected nature of diabetes, obesity, and liver health.

The HDA International Conclave 2026 brought together leading experts from India and abroad to discuss advances in diabetes and metabolic medicine. Dr. Jayakrishnan's presentation reinforced a crucial message for healthcare professionals and the public alike: *the future of diabetes care is inseparable from the prevention, detection, and treatment of fatty liver disease.*

"Fatty liver is the new diabetes—not because it replaces diabetes, but because it represents the next great metabolic challenge that clinicians can no longer afford to ignore," concluded Dr. Jayakrishnan.