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Why modern lifestyles, hidden toxins, infections, and stress are making jaundice a year-round threat and what you can do to protect your liver.
Jaundice is a preventable condition, but when left untreated, it can become life-threatening. (News18)
The majority of us grew up believing that jaundice appears only during certain seasons, especially the monsoon, or that it affects only infants. However, the reality is quite different. Jaundice today is no longer a seasonal concern, it can affect anyone, at any time. The condition refers to the yellowing of the eyes and skin due to the buildup of bilirubin in the body. Importantly, jaundice is not an illness by itself; it is a warning sign indicating that something may be wrong with the liver, bile ducts, or even the blood.
Dr Ajay Yadav, Director & Head, GI Surgery, Max Hospital, Lucknow shares all you need to know:
In earlier years, many cases were linked to seasonal infections. Today, however, the causes are strongly rooted in modern lifestyle habits, dietary choices, medications, and environmental exposures. With chronic liver diseases on the rise, the real danger lies in the everyday risks most people tend to overlook.
The Modern Epidemic: Lifestyle and Dietary Risks
One of the biggest contributors to the rise in jaundice is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD/MASLD). Strongly associated with obesity and unhealthy diets, this condition is fuelled by processed foods, sugary drinks, sweets, fast food, and deep-fried items. These daily habits overload the liver, causing fat accumulation, inflammation, scarring, and eventually jaundice.
A sedentary lifestyle adds to the risk. Long hours of sitting, minimal physical activity, and work routines that limit mobility slow down metabolism and increase insulin resistance—two major drivers of liver damage.
Regular heavy drinking is another year-round trigger. Alcohol does not depend on seasons. Continuous consumption damages liver cells and can lead to cirrhosis or alcoholic hepatitis, where jaundice is often one of the first visible symptoms.
The Chemical Culprits: Medications and Environmental Toxins
Certain medications including commonly used painkillers like paracetamol can harm the liver when misused. Unregulated herbal supplements and over-the-counter drugs also pose risks.
Environmental toxins silently add to the burden. Everyday exposure to cleaning agents, pesticide fumes, and industrial chemicals gradually strains the liver. Over time, this reduces its ability to detoxify the body, increasing susceptibility to jaundice.
Infectious and Behavioral Risks That Don’t Follow Seasons
Diseases such as Hepatitis B and C spread through unsafe sexual practices, shared needles, and non-sterile tattoo or medical equipment. These risks exist throughout the year.
Similarly, Hepatitis A and E spread through contaminated food and water can arise in homes, restaurants, or while traveling. They are not confined to monsoons or outbreaks.
The Silent Stresses: Sleep, Stress, and Hormonal Health
Chronic stress and sleep deprivation disrupt metabolism and weaken immunity, making the liver more vulnerable. Conditions such as thyroid disorders and autoimmune hepatitis exert ongoing pressure on liver function and can lead to jaundice.
Jaundice is no longer a seasonal issue, it is a reflection of how our daily habits, stress levels, and environment influence liver health throughout the year. According to Dr Yadav, the best protection lies in consistent lifestyle choices: eating healthier, exercising regularly, using medications wisely, limiting exposure to harmful chemicals, staying updated with vaccinations, and seeking medical attention at the earliest signs of fatigue or yellowing of the eyes. Taking accountability for everyday choices is the most effective way to safeguard your liver.
Swati Chaturvedi is a seasoned media professional with over 13 years of experience in journalism, digital content strategy, and editorial leadership across top national media houses. An alumna of Lady Shri Ram …Read More
Swati Chaturvedi is a seasoned media professional with over 13 years of experience in journalism, digital content strategy, and editorial leadership across top national media houses. An alumna of Lady Shri Ram … Read More
November 26, 2025, 10:50 IST