Medanta – The Medicity, ranked India’s Best Private Hospital by Newsweek for six consecutive years, has identified a significant uptick in pediatric liver-related ailments, driven by urban lifestyle changes.
Speaking at the event, Dr. B.C Roy National Awardee – Dr. Neelam Mohan,Senior Director Gastroenterology and Liver Transplant, Medanta said,“Awareness of pediatric liver diseases in Siliguri remains relatively low among both physicians and parents. This often results in delayed diagnosis, especially in conditions like biliary atresia—the most common liver disease in children presenting as jaundice in newborns beyond two weeks of life. Often the delayed diagnosis leads to advanced liver disease. Pancreatitis, though less common in children, is another serious condition that often goes unrecognized.
Dr Mohan also highlighted an emerging concern about the rampant and unnecessary use of antibiotics, especially among children and added,“Self-medication and over-the-counter use of antibiotics without medical supervision is common and dangerous. It weakens liver function and the immune system—parents need to be better informed. During my monthly OPD in Siliguri, we see 18 to25 pediatric liver and gastro-intestinal patients. There is an urgent need for better education, early screening, and timely referrals, in Siliguri and similar cities, where pediatric liver diseases often go unrecognized.”
National data suggests nearly 35% of children and adolescents are now affected by MASLD, stemming from poor dietary habits, high salt intake, sedentary behavior, and excessive screen time. The growing misuse of antibiotics has further worsened pediatric liver health outcomes. Dr. Mohan stressed the need for early screening, timely referrals, and better physician-parent awareness to curb long-term complications.
The Siliguri pediatric healthcare sector is witnessing growing demand for gastro-hepatology services. Monthly Medanta OPDs in the city report 18 to 25 pediatric liver and GI cases, reflecting rising parental concern and market readiness for specialized care. Urbanization and changing lifestyles in the Siliguri region continue to shape market trends, pushing demand for expert-led early interventions.
