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While in the early stages, it does not cause any harm, the condition leads to serious liver damage, cirrhosis or cancer
One in five young adults across the world shows evidence of fatty liver disease, according to experts. The disease, characterized by a buildup of fat in the liver caused by alcohol or obesity, usually affects people from their 40s onwards. However, according to the latest study by the University of Bristol, a large number of those in their 20s and 30s are also getting affected.
The research, which followed millions of those born in Bristol between 1991 and 1992, found that 20 per cent of them showed evidence of fatty liver disease at just 24 years old. Meanwhile, one in 40—about 2.5 per cent - had more advanced liver disease with scarring.
The study has sounded the alarm over cases of the deadly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), soaring over the past three decades. NALFD is mostly caused by a buildup of fat in the liver, often seen in people who are overweight or obese. While in the early stages, it does not cause any harm; the condition leads to serious liver damage, including cirrhosis or even cancer if it gets worse. However, you can still develop the condition if you're at a healthy weight.
Subtle signs of fatty liver disease
Fatty liver disease, also known as steatosis, is a condition that should not be ignored at any cost. According to experts, it is extremely important to know what’s causing fat buildup in your liver and get treated. Even if you have early-stage cirrhosis, there are steps you can take to protect your liver from further damage. In some instances, you can even reverse some damage by following your provider’s treatment plan for you.
In fact, most people with liver disease do not experience any symptoms until it has progressed. Possible early symptoms may include:
- Abdominal pain or a feeling of fullness in the upper right side of your belly
- Extreme exhaustion or weakness
- Chronic nausea and dizziness
- Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
- Yellowish skin and whites of the eyes, which can be a sign of jaundice
What causes fatty liver disease in youngsters?
According to doctors, while the condition has multiple causes, you are likely to develop the fatty liver disease if you have a cardiometabolic risk factor, if you consume unhealthy amounts of alcohol or both. You have a greater chance of developing it if you:
- Have alcohol use disorder
- Have a metabolic syndrome like high blood pressure or cholesterol levels
- Have type 2 diabetes
- Are overweight
- Have polycystic ovary syndrome
- Have sleep apnea
- Have hypothyroidism
How to prevent fatty liver disease?
The best way to avoid SLD is to maintain your overall health.
- Exercise regularly.
- Limit your alcohol consumption.
- Maintain a weight that’s healthy for you.
- Take medications as prescribed if you have Type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome.
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