Two-thirds of people living with type 2 diabetes are also at risk of fatty liver disease, according to the British Liver Trust. This condition can significantly increase the chances of developing type 2 diabetes, putting individuals at risk for serious health complications. The charity is urging those at risk to get tested, so both conditions can be properly managed.
According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), it is estimated that by 2025, over 5 million people in the UK will be diagnosed with diabetes. This means that the country could be facing a large influx of new cases of fatty liver disease in the near future.
Fatty liver disease, also known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is characterized by excess liver fat and is a growing health concern. If left untreated, it can progress to severe MASH (metabolic associated steatohepatitis), which can lead to liver failure or cancer.
Obesity is a major risk factor for both type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease. It is predicted that by 2040, 21 million adults in the UK will be obese.
Vanessa Hebditch, Director of Communications and Policy at the British Liver Trust, stresses the importance of addressing this issue: “If you are diagnosed with fatty liver disease, the first line of treatment is to lose weight and maintain a healthy diet. There is strong evidence that losing 5 to 10% of body weight can effectively control and even reverse the condition.”
In addition to increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease can also lead to other serious health complications. A study by Diabetes UK in 2022 found that having higher levels of fat in the liver directly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Vanessa continues, “Living with both fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes can increase the risk of developing complications and more serious liver disease. For example, having both conditions can further increase the risk of heart disease, so it is crucial to get tested if you could be at risk.”
According to the British Liver Trust, 9 out of 10 cases of liver disease can be prevented by addressing major risk factors such as excess weight, alcohol consumption, and viral hepatitis. To assess your risk of liver disease, visit www.britishlivertrust.org.uk/risk.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.