1 in 4 adults has an undiagnosed liver disorder that can lead to heart disease

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

• Research suggests that one in four adults may have nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
• NAFLD can increase the risk of heart disease if undiagnosed for years.
• Leading a healthy lifestyle and early diagnosis of NAFLD can save lives.

New research by the American Heart Association (AHA) estimates one in four adults may have nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The agency warns that the often missed condition increases someone’s risk of heart disease.

A person who gets NAFLD has high amounts of fat in the liver which could lead to scarring, inflammation, and permanent liver damage. The research was published in the peer-reviewed journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology on April 14.

The most common cause of death in patients with NAFLD is heart disease. NAFLD shares many risk factors including type 2 diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome — elevated blood sugar and blood triglycerides, increased abdominal fat and high blood pressure, according to AHA.

Patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease have a higher risk of developing heart disease compared to people who have the risk factors but without NAFLD.

P. Barton Duell, M.D., FAHA, chair of the statement writing committee, said NAFLD is a common condition but often missed in routine wellness care.

“It is important to know about the condition and treat it early because it is a risk factor for chronic liver damage and cardiovascular disease,” Duell said.

AHA hopes to raise NAFLD awareness and improve access to screening tests and treatments.

Excessive alcohol consumption can also cause fat deposits and liver dysfunction but NAFLD is separate.

According to the AHA, early diagnosis is vital in treatment. Though genetics play a role in whether someone develops NAFLD, a healthy lifestyle can help prevent it. AHA recommends taking regular exercise, following a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy body weight. The health agency added that managing conditions like type 2 diabetes and hypertension also helps.

Losing 10% of body weight can greatly reduce liver fat, and even 5% weight loss showed improvements, the AHA said.

Even without the goal of losing weight, the AHA recommends 20-30 minutes of daily exercise to lower liver fat and boost insulin sensitivity.

For a healthier diet, researchers recommend reducing the consumption of fat and simple sugars, avoiding alcohol, and adding fiber-rich vegetables and whole grains.

Source: INSIDER