Love Your Liver

Written by Shalini Vohra.

Non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent disorder characterized by the accumulation of fat in liver cells in individuals who consume little or no alcohol. If undiagnosed or left untreated it can progress to cirrhosis and liver cancer.

The high prevalence of NAFLD in obese children is a growing public health concern that requires urgent attention. In a small percentage of people having normal weight can also have NAFLD due to a strong familial or genetic disposition.

The estimated global incidence of NAFLD is 47 cases per 1000 population and is higher among males than females.  

Dr Shiv Sarin , is a renowned hepatologist and pioneer in liver disease research in India. He has emphasized the importance of awareness, early diagnosis and preventive measures and his efforts include awareness campaigns to educate the public about the risks of fatty liver disease.

The management of fatty liver disease primarily focuses on weight loss. The alarming trend in children is to overeat and spent time on watching television and playing computer games instead of doing outdoor activities like jogging or playing a sport.

Regular physical activity of 60 minutes daily and gradual and sustained weight loss is the key to reduce weight which will aid loss of liver fat and improve liver function.

Some of the  tell tales signs of liver disease on the face are dark skin in the crease of the neck, caused by excess insulin buildup in a condition called acanthosis nigricans. Other symptoms are rash around the mouth due to zinc  deficiency ,itching including on the face due to excess of bile ducts in the body and jaundice which is yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, due to increased level of bilirubin.

April 19 this observed as World Liver Day to raise awareness and promote liver health.

If diagnosed with NAFLD there are a combination of clinical evaluation, blood tests, and imaging studies to access the extend of liver damage.  

Pharmacological treatments are also being explored , but none are currently approved specifically for NAFLD . Managing comorbid conditions such as diabetes and hyper lipidemia is crucial.

We should never ignore any warning signals and undergo screening to avoid progress of the disease. Invest in good health for our body by maintaining the correct weight, modify sedentary life and replace it with regular exercise , so that we can overcome any genetic handicaps by our own efforts and wisdom.

This will lead to a life free from visits to hospitals and also repair flaws so that the next generation can be disease free.

Let’s move forward together for a healthy liver and a happy life. “Eat right, feel bright”.

 “Healthy choices, Happy life “. Wellness begins with you !