Fatty liver disease is emerging as a major health risk, and new research shows just how serious it can be. According to recent studies, having this disease increases the risk of death by 30% to 60%. But what is it, why is it so risky and what causes it? Here’s everything you need to know in simple terms.
What Is Fatty Liver?
Fatty liver disease (also called hepatic steatosis) happens when too much fat builds up in the liver. Normally, the liver should have very little fat. Doctors consider it when fat makes up more than 5% of the liver’s weight.
There are two main types:
1. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), also called metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), which is linked to weight gain, diabetes and lifestyle issues.
2. Alcoholic fatty liver disease, caused by heavy drinking.
Most people with this disease have the non-alcoholic type.
Why Is It Dangerous?
The liver is the body’s detox centre, helping process nutrients and clean the blood. When fat clogs the liver, it cannot work properly. Over time, this can lead to inflammation (steatohepatitis), scarring (fibrosis), and severe damage (cirrhosis). Cirrhosis can make the liver fail completely or even cause liver cancer.
Fatty liver is often called a “silent killer” because early stages usually have no symptoms. Many people only find out during routine health tests.
How Dangerous Is It? The 30% To 60% Death Risk
Research from the US and other countries shows that people with fatty liver (especially NAFLD) have a 30% to 60% higher risk of death. The risks are not just liver-related. It also raises the chance of heart attacks, strokes and other serious diseases.
According to research data published by ahajournals.org, more than 25% of adults worldwide have non-alcoholic FL disease (NAFLD). People with NAFLD have a 1.3 times higher risk of dying from any cause, and for older adults, the risk can be up to 1.6 times higher. The more severe the liver damage, the higher the risk of dying from any cause.
What Is The No. 1 Cause Of Fatty Liver?
Being overweight or obese is said to be the main cause. Extra belly fat is especially risky. Other factors include diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure, which are part of metabolic syndrome. Rapid weight changes or poor diets high in sugar and processed foods can also trigger fatty liver.
Which Vitamin Deficiency Causes This Disease?
Vitamin D deficiency plays a role in FL. People with low vitamin D often have worse liver fat, abnormal liver enzymes and poor cholesterol levels. Vitamin D helps the body metabolise fat and protects the liver from inflammation.
Most Searched And Trending Facts
1. It usually has no symptoms early on.
2. The condition can often be reversed with healthy diet, exercise and weight loss.
3. Simple steps like eating natural foods, being active and maintaining vitamin D levels can help prevent or improve it.
4. Taking fatty liver seriously and making small lifestyle changes can protect your liver and extend your life.
Please note: All data in this article has been collected from multiple sources. DNP India does not independently verify it.
