World Liver Day 2017: Understanding Liver Health and Diseases

By in Liver Transplant Gastroenterology General Surgery GI Surgery

Apr 19, 2017

World Liver Day: Understanding Liver Health and Common Liver Diseases

Every year on April 19, World Liver Day is observed to spread awareness about liver health and highlight the importance of early detection and prevention of liver diseases. The liver, being the second-largest organ of the body, performs essential functions—digestion, detoxification, immunity, metabolism, and nutrient storage. Despite its resilience, the liver can get damaged due to infections, unhealthy lifestyle habits, and long-term medical conditions.

Common Liver Diseases

1. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

A growing global health concern, NAFLD occurs due to excess fat accumulation in the liver without alcohol consumption. If untreated, it can progress to:

• Liver inflammation
• Fibrosis
• Cirrhosis
• Liver failure
• Liver cancer

It is commonly linked to obesity, diabetes, and sedentary lifestyle.

2. Hepatitis C

A viral infection that causes liver inflammation and long-term liver damage. It spreads through:

• Infected blood transfusions
• Sharing needles
• Unsafe medical procedures

Symptoms are often mild but may include fever, fatigue, and weakness. Chronic infection may lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer.

3. Hepatitis B

A severe liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus. It spreads through blood, sexual contact, or from mother to child at birth. It is preventable by vaccination.

Common symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Yellowing of eyes & skin (jaundice)
• Weakness and fatigue

4. Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis results from long-term liver damage due to hepatitis B/C, alcohol abuse, fatty liver disease, or other causes. It leads to:

• Liver scarring
• Jaundice
• Itching
• Abdominal swelling
• Weakness

This condition requires timely diagnosis and management to prevent liver failure.

5. Alcoholic Hepatitis

Caused by heavy and prolonged alcohol intake, it leads to liver inflammation. Common signs include:

• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Impaired liver function

Avoiding alcohol is the most effective way to prevent progression.

6. Hepatitis A

A contagious viral infection spread through contaminated food, water, or close contact. Symptoms resemble the flu:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Stomach discomfort
• Jaundice

Hepatitis A is preventable through vaccination, good hygiene, and clean drinking water.

How to Maintain a Healthy Liver

• Maintain a balanced diet focused on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean sources of protein.

• Exercise regularly to maintain body weight
• Avoid alcohol or consume only in moderation
• Stay hydrated
• Get vaccinated for Hepatitis A & B
• Avoid unnecessary medications or self-prescribing drugs
• Get regular liver checkups, especially if you fall in high-risk categories

A healthy liver helps regulate glucose, fat, protein, and cholesterol metabolism—making it crucial for energy and immunity.

Take Action on World Liver Day

Use this day to:

• Spread awareness in your community
• Get screened for liver diseases
• Encourage healthy lifestyle changes
• Consult experts for any persistent symptoms
• Promote vaccination for Hepatitis A & B

Early diagnosis and timely treatment can prevent complications and save lives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is World Liver Day observed?

World Liver Day is observed every year on April 19 to spread awareness about liver health, encourage early detection of liver diseases, and promote preventive lifestyle habits.

2. What are the early symptoms of liver disease?

Common early signs include:

• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach discomfort
• Dark urine
• Yellowing of eyes or skin (jaundice)

Many liver diseases show no symptoms initially, so regular checkups are important.

3. Can fatty liver be reversed?

Yes, early-stage fatty liver (NAFLD) can be reversed through:

• Weight loss
• Regular exercise
• Balanced diet
• Avoiding alcohol
• Controlling diabetes & cholesterol

4. How is Hepatitis B different from Hepatitis C?

• Hepatitis B: Preventable by vaccine, spreads through body fluids.
• Hepatitis C: No vaccine available, spreads mainly through infected blood.

Both can cause liver inflammation and long-term liver damage if untreated.

5. How frequently should I undergo liver health check-ups?

People with risk factors—diabetes, obesity, alcohol use, or a family history of liver disease—should get annual liver function tests (LFTs) or as advised by a doctor.

6. Does alcohol always damage the liver?

Occasional moderate drinking may not cause harm, but excessive or regular alcohol consumption increases the risk for fatty liver, cirrhosis, and alcoholic hepatitis.

7. What foods are good for the liver?

A liver-friendly diet includes:

• Green leafy vegetables
• Fresh fruits
• Whole grains
• Lean proteins
• Healthy fats (olive oil, nuts)
• Adequate hydration

Limit processed foods, sugar, and high-fat meals.

8. Is liver disease preventable?

Yes. Most liver diseases can be prevented through:

• Vaccination (Hepatitis A & B)
• Healthy eating
• Avoiding alcohol
• Maintaining ideal weight
• Practicing safe hygiene
• Avoiding sharing needles
• Regular screenings

9. When should I see a doctor?

Consult a specialist immediately if you notice:

• Persistent fatigue
• Yellowing of eyes/skin
• Severe abdominal pain
• Swelling in legs or abdomen
• Dark urine
• Sudden weight loss