Fatty Liver Disease Awareness Campaign Aims to Curb Rising Cases
Lisbon, Portugal – The Portuguese Association for the Study of the Liver (APEF) has launched a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about steatotic liver disease, commonly known as fatty liver disease.The initiative, coinciding with International Day of Steathetic Liver Disease on June 12th, aims to educate the public on prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment of this frequently enough-silent condition.
Urgent Action Needed to Address Fatty Liver epidemic
Under the banner “Act now. Take care of your liver today,” APEFS campaign will leverage social media throughout June to disseminate crucial data. The campaign arrives as global cases of fatty liver surge, driven by sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy diets.
Did you Know? The name of the condition was updated in 2023 to “steatotic liver disease” to better reflect the various causes and risk factors beyond just fat accumulation [[3]].
According to APEF President Paula Peixe,over 1.2 million people in Portugal are estimated to have liver steatosis, which could potentially progress to cirrhosis.”If before this disease was associated only with excessive alcohol consumption, today we know that in most cases it results from unhealthy life habits, being directly related to the type of food and sedentary lifestyle,” Peixe stated.
childhood Obesity Fuels Future Risk
Peixe emphasized the importance of early intervention, noting that “If 30% of our children are overweight, it is indeed essential to act early to ensure healthier adults.” The association stresses that steatotic liver disease is preventable and avoidable through proactive measures, especially starting at younger ages.
Steatotic liver disease,characterized by excess fat accumulation in the liver,often presents without symptoms. This can lead to inflammation, fibrosis (scarring), and in advanced stages, cirrhosis or even liver cancer [[2]].
Global Impact of Steatotic Liver Disease
The Global Liver Institute reports that over 115 million people worldwide are currently living with this condition.Projections estimate that this number will exceed 357 million by 2030, highlighting the urgency of addressing this growing health crisis.
| Year | Estimated Cases |
|---|---|
| Current | 115 Million+ |
| 2030 (Projected) | 357 Million+ |
Prevention is Key to Combating Fatty Liver
APEF advocates for a multi-faceted approach to combat steatotic liver disease, focusing on education, early screening, and lifestyle modifications. The association encourages individuals to adopt healthier dietary habits, engage in regular physical activity, and consult with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance.
Pro Tip: Regular exercise, even moderate activity like brisk walking, can significantly improve liver health and reduce fat accumulation.
By raising awareness and promoting proactive measures, APEF hopes to reduce the burden of steatotic liver disease and improve liver health outcomes for the Portuguese population.
What lifestyle changes have you made to improve your overall health? How can communities better support individuals in adopting healthier habits?
Understanding Steatotic Liver Disease: An Evergreen Outlook
Steatotic liver disease, previously known as fatty liver disease, encompasses a range of conditions characterized by the buildup of excess fat in the liver. While historically linked to alcohol abuse, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as a significant concern, often associated with obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome [[1]]. The condition’s progression can vary, ranging from simple steatosis (fat accumulation) to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which involves inflammation and potential liver damage. Early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent long-term complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fatty Liver Disease
- What is steatotic liver disease?
Steatotic liver disease, also known as fatty liver disease, is a condition characterized by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver [[3]].
- What are the primary causes of fatty liver disease?
While excessive alcohol consumption was previously considered the main cause, steatotic liver disease is now primarily linked to unhealthy lifestyle habits, including poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects individuals who consume little to no alcohol [[1]].
- What are the potential complications of untreated steatotic liver disease?
If left unmanaged, steatotic liver disease can progress to more severe conditions such as cirrhosis, liver cancer, and esophageal varices [[2]].
- how common is fatty liver disease?
The Global Liver Institute estimates that over 115 million people worldwide currently live with steatotic liver disease, and projections indicate this number could exceed 357 million by 2030.
- What steps can be taken to prevent steatotic liver disease?
Prevention is key, and it should start at a young age. Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of developing fatty liver disease.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about steatotic liver disease and should not be considered medical advice.Consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment options.
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