Global Fatty Liver Day: Unmasking the ‘Concealed Epidemic’

Global Fatty Liver Day: Unmasking the ‘Concealed Epidemic’

Keywords: Fatty liver, Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), NASH, cirrhosis, liver cancer

Global Fatty Liver Day, observed annually on June 3, aims to raise awareness about the silent and often overlooked condition known as fatty liver.

The Concealed Epidemic

Fatty liver is characterized by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver. While it is commonly associated with excessive alcohol consumption, a large proportion of cases worldwide are due to non-alcoholic factors, such as obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.

The alarming prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has earned it the moniker “concealed epidemic.” Studies estimate that up to 25% of the global population suffers from NAFLD, with higher rates in developed countries.

Health Risks of Fatty Liver

Untreated fatty liver can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a more severe form that can lead to liver inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. These complications can be life-threatening.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Fatty liver often causes no symptoms in its early stages. However, as it progresses, individuals may experience:

Fatigue
Right upper quadrant abdominal pain
Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Fluid retention in the legs or ankles

Diagnosis is typically made through blood tests and imaging tests, such as ultrasound or liver biopsy.

Prevention and Treatment

Preventing and managing fatty liver involves lifestyle modifications:

Weight loss
Healthy diet
Regular exercise
Limiting alcohol consumption
Managing underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes, obesity)

For advanced cases of NASH, medications or surgery may be necessary.

Call to Action

Global Fatty Liver Day serves as a call to action to raise awareness, encourage screening, and promote early intervention. By addressing the concealed epidemic of fatty liver, we can prevent its devastating consequences and improve liver health worldwide.