Fatty Liver Global Epidemic, Symptoms, causes, Treatment & More
Fatty Liver Global Epidemic
Fatty liver disease is becoming a global health problem. It happens when too much fat builds up in liver cells. This can be caused by drinking too much alcohol, but now it’s more common due to poor diet and lack of exercise. This non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is linked to obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
The rise in fatty liver disease is seen worldwide. It’s more common in developed countries, but it’s also increasing in developing countries as they adopt Western lifestyles and diets. This means more people are eating high-calorie, high-fat foods and getting less physical activity.
Symptoms and Causes
Fatty liver disease often has no symptoms, but some people might experience tiredness, weakness, and pain in the upper right side of the abdomen. It can be caused by excessive alcohol consumption (alcoholic fatty liver disease) or poor diet, obesity, lack of exercise, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Other causes include rapid weight loss, certain medications, and metabolic disorders.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Doctors diagnose fatty liver disease using blood tests, imaging tests like ultrasound, and sometimes a liver biopsy. Early detection is important to prevent serious complications.
Treatment for fatty liver disease focuses on lifestyle changes. Losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly are the main steps. Avoiding alcohol and managing other health conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol are also important. In some cases, doctors might prescribe medication to help control these other conditions.
Prevention
Prevention is key to tackling the fatty liver epidemic. This means promoting healthy eating habits and physical activity. Public health campaigns can help raise awareness about the risks of fatty liver disease and the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
Governments and communities can work together to create environments that support healthy choices, like providing parks for exercise and making healthy food options more accessible.
Dr. Amit Agarwal
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Agarwal Gastrocare Center Indore