| Abstrakt: |
Modern society, unlike its ancestors, has its own new norms of nutrition and behavior. These are determined by urbanization, introduction of new eating habits and the wide use of convenience food. Obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), including fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) lead to the development of fibrosis, which progresses and becomes a leading cause of cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The present study aims to examine and discuss the behavior in the joint manifestation of these two diseases. Apart from the health consequences for the individual and society, the economic burden of these previously neglected conditions is also significant. We searched official data from the WHO, EUROSAT, National Statistical Institute of Bulgaria and National Center for Public Health and Analysis regarding morbidity and economic burden of obesity and NAFLD, and official recommendations from AASLD, EASL of treatment for cirrhosis and HCC. Data show that about 20 - 30% of adults living in high-standard countries consuming Western diets have too much liver fat, i.e., NAFLD. Between 2 - 5% have significant liver damage (NASH) and 1-2% of all adults may be at risk of progression to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma due to NASH. Current treatment should include a diet low in carbohydrates, physical activity and GLP-agonists. Changes in lifestyle, especially diet, lead to a significant reduction in the risk of developing insulin resistance, NAFLD, NASH, cirrhosis and primary hepatocellular carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
