Fatty liver or hepatic steatosis has become one of the most common chronic liver diseases globally. The symptoms of hepatic steatosis are not always obvious, doctors warn.
Obesity affects the liver PHOTO: Shuterstock
Cases of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in children and adolescents are increasing, especially among those with obesity. Sedentary lifestyle, along with high consumption of foods high in sugar and fat, is mainly responsible. A recent study showed that almost 20% of obese children suffer from this disease, which is extremely worrying.
“Fatty liver or hepatic steatosis has become one of the most common chronic liver diseases globally. This condition affects between 25% and 30% of the global population, which is a wake-up call. The disease occurs when the liver accumulates an excess of fat and can be of two types: alcoholic hepatic steatosis, caused by excessive alcohol consumption, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which occurs in the context of obesity, diabetes and other metabolic conditions.”says dr. Alexandru Nechifor, specialist in internal medicine.
Unfortunately, the symptoms of hepatic steatosis are not always obvious.
“The most common are chronic fatigue, abdominal discomfort or pain in the right side of the abdomen and, in more severe cases, loss of appetite and weight loss. Many times, patients discover the disease by chance, following a routine check-up, because the symptoms are subtle or even absent”explains doctor Alexandru Nechifor.
According to the specialist, hepatic steatosis is closely related to the modern lifestyle. The major risk factors are excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, type 2 diabetes, sedentary lifestyle and a diet high in sugars and trans fats. Recent studies show that people who frequently consume artificially sweetened beverages and processed foods have an increased risk of developing fatty liver.
Smoking and lack of adequate rest also contribute to the progression of this condition.
“Cases of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in children and adolescents are increasing, especially among those with obesity. Sedentary lifestyle, along with high consumption of foods high in sugar and fat, is mainly responsible. A recent study showed that almost 20% of obese children suffer from this disease, which is extremely worrying. It is essential to intervene early and promote healthy eating habits among young people“, says Dr. Not a cypress.
Prevention is the key, and for that it is essential to adopt a balanced lifestyle, says Dr. Not a cypress.
“I recommend a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, lean protein and healthy fats, combined with regular exercise. Recent studies show that moderate exercise can reduce the risk of fatty liver disease by up to 30-50%. It is also important to avoid excessive alcohol consumption and to have quality sleep. Regular screening by abdominal ultrasound is a simple and effective method to detect fatty liver in its early stages. says the doctor from Galati.
Is there prevention in Romania for this disease?
Unfortunately, prevention is insufficiently developed in Romania, draws the attention of doctor Alexandru Nechifor.
“Most of the time, patients come to the doctor when the disease is already advanced, and this makes treatment more difficult. We should invest more in health education, promote a healthy lifestyle and carry out effective awareness campaigns. Prevention must start from childhood, from kindergarten, so that young people understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle”, says the specialist.
Fatty liver, if ignored, can lead to serious complications.
“Over time, the disease can progress to cirrhosis, an irreversible liver disease, or even liver cancer. The liver has over 500 vital functions in the human body, so it is essential to keep it healthy. It is our duty to take measures to prevent or treat this condition early,” warns Dr. Not a cypress.
Consequently, the doctor claims, a balanced diet, regular physical activity and rest are the pillars of a healthy life.
Doctor Alexandru Nechifor PHOTO: Personal archive
“The liver is a vital organ, and its health must be a priority for each of us. I recommend periodically performing an abdominal ultrasound to detect possible liver problems in time. It is a simple, painless and effective procedure. Liver health is essential for the well-being of the whole body, so let’s not neglect this aspect”concludes Dr. Alexandru Nechifor.
Dr. Alexandru Nechifor is a specialist in internal medicine, Doctor of Medicine at the “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Bucharest, completed his training at Harvard Medical School, where he attended advanced courses in the field of clinical research.
Currently, he holds the position of President of the Senate at “Dănărea de Jos” University in Galati, being actively involved in the university’s educational strategies and institutional relations.
