A recent scientific study warns that metabolic liver diseases could become a widespread global health crisis, with projections of 1.8 billion people affected by 2050, driven by rising rates of obesity, blood sugar disorders, and unhealthy lifestyles. According to 'The Guardian', which published the study, 'metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease' (formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) is currently one of the fastest-spreading liver diseases globally, with an estimated 1.3 billion cases in 2023. The data shows a 143% increase compared to 1990, meaning one in six people worldwide currently suffers from this condition. Projections indicate the number of cases is expected to rise to 1.8 billion by 2050, a 42% increase from 2023 levels. The study reveals the disease is more common in men than women, with the highest prevalence in the 80-84 age group. However, the largest number of actual cases is found in younger adults, particularly men aged 35-39 and women aged 55-59, suggesting increasing rates among productive segments of society. The results confirm that high blood sugar is the most influential factor in the disease's development worldwide, followed by high body mass index and smoking, reflecting the strong link between the disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Some regions, particularly North Africa and the Middle East, show higher prevalence rates than the global average, while all continents are experiencing rapid increases in case numbers. Despite this significant rise, the study notes that the overall health burden of the disease has remained relatively stable, reflecting improvements in diagnostic and treatment methods that help patients live longer with the condition. It's important to note that the disease often causes no clear symptoms in its early stages and is usually discovered incidentally during medical tests for other reasons. Symptoms in advanced stages may include severe fatigue, general malaise, and pain in the upper right part of the abdomen. The study concludes that changing lifestyle patterns, including improving diet and increasing physical activity, remains the most effective way to reduce the spread of the disease and decrease future risks.
