Fatty liver disease, which is a very common health problem today, is among the chronic liver diseases that are rapidly spreading worldwide. Medicana Health Group Gastroenterology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bilal Toka said that many people get this disease without realizing it, and when it is late, diseases such as liver cirrhosis or liver cancer can occur.
According to studies, it is predicted that fatty liver disease will be the biggest cause of cirrhosis and liver transplantation in the future. Stating that fatty liver disease occurs as a result of excessive fat accumulation in liver cells, Medicana Konya Hospital Gastroenterology Specialist Bilal Toka noted that fat accumulation that progresses over time can disrupt the liver structure and serious consequences such as cirrhosis can be encountered. Stating that fatty liver disease is caused by two main causes, alcohol and non-alcohol, and that it is well known in the public that excessive alcohol consumption causes fat accumulation in the liver, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bilal Toka said, “Fatty liver disease does not only develop due to alcohol consumption. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), which is increasing and becoming more common today, is also closely related to conditions such as excess weight, diabetes and high cholesterol. Due to the sedentary lifestyle and high-calorie eating habits that are becoming more and more common in our country, this disease stands out as a more important health problem day by day.”
“Fatty liver disease often progresses silently and insidiously”
Explaining that it is estimated that one in every 3 people in Turkey has fatty liver disease, and that fatty liver disease often progresses silently and insidiously, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bilal Toka said, “Fatty liver disease does not cause a significant complaint in the early stages. Therefore, it is usually revealed by chance during check-up or blood tests performed for any reason, abdominal ultrasonography examination. As the disease progresses, symptoms such as a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, fatigue and mild abdominal pain are observed. However, these symptoms are usually negligible and usually do not require hospitalization. However, if measures are not taken and treated in the early stages, fatty liver disease can progress and cause more serious health problems such as cirrhosis and liver failure.
“Losing weight can stop fatty liver disease”
Noting that there are high-risk conditions for fatty liver disease, Gastroenterology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bilal Toka explained that high-risk groups include obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol and genetic predisposition. Stating that lifestyle changes including diet, weight loss and exercise can stop or even regress the progression of the disease, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bilal Toka continued as follows:
“Fatty liver disease is an important health problem that should be diagnosed and treated early. It is important to control factors such as excess weight, diabetes and high cholesterol. In addition, a high-fiber diet and exercise are treatments that have proven effective in preventing fatty liver disease. It is of great importance for individuals with risk factors for fatty liver disease to have regular health checks and follow-ups.''
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