The early-stage non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) may not usually cause harm. However, if it worsens, it can lead to severe liver damage, including cirrhosis, as people tend to take fatty liver for granted.
The prevalence of NAFLD is increasing in developed countries with their growing obesity epidemic. As diabetes, NAFLD and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) tend to co-exist, the prevalence of NAFLD in GCC is expected to be high.
The estimated global incidence of NAFLD is 47 per 1,000 population and is higher among males than females. The estimated prevalence of NAFLD in the Middle East is 32 per cent, the highest globally. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has the largest incidence with rapid development, economic growth, and the accompanying changes in the prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
For those who have been less active and obese, it pays to make lifestyle changes to prevent the condition from getting worse, as the disease is on the rise and is predicted to reach 55 per cent by 2040.
High liver fat levels are also associated with an increased risk of serious health problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and kidney disease. If one already has diabetes, NAFLD increases the chances of developing heart problems. As they say, a stitch in time saves.
Dr Mizun al Rahman, senior consultant family physician, MoH, says NAFLD can lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and end-stage liver disease due to the complications associated with often ignored disease.
“By and large, fatty liver is the leading cause of liver transplant worldwide as it is a part of our metabolic syndrome,” she said.
Global incidence is around 40 per cent in males and 26 per cent in females. Over the last three decades, the prevalence increased from 25 per cent in 2005 to 38 per cent in 2016, gradually ascending above 40 per cent.
According to Dr Dilip, Specialist, Internal Medicine at Shifa Hospital, a fatty liver is the leading cause of chronic liver disease as, in this case, fat accumulates in the liver over the years.
“NAFLD comprises many entities ranging from simple liver disease (Steatosis) to end-stage disease called cirrhosis and is usually seen in people who are overweight or obese,” says Dr Dilip.
As said earlier, the only way to prevent fatty liver is by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, following a strict diet, engaging in more physical activity and maintaining normal weight.
Mini Padikkal, a Clinical Dietician at NMC, says fatty liver can be cured fully if a set of food habits and lifestyle changes is adopted.
“One should reduce carbs, white rice, and dosa, as carbs are the main reason for fatty liver and avoid junk foods, aerated beverages, alcohol, beer, biscuits, etc. Also, oily food, fried items, and outside foods from restaurants should be reduced. Instead, include homemade foods and fruits and vegetables more,” says Mini.
“One should also include foods rich in fibre, green vegetables and fruits, drink water aplenty, exercise, reduce weight and abdominal fat,” she added.
Dr Viresh Chopra of Oman Dental College says smokers and alcoholics should quit their habits.
“One must stop smoking and avoid alcohol as these two are major villains in one’s life. More importantly, one should exercise regularly and aim for weight loss with a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9. Lastly, have water instead of sweet drinks,” adds Dr Chopra.
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