Fatty Liver Increases Risk of Early Death from Multiple Diseases, Study Reveals

Fatty Liver Disease Linked to Increased Mortality Risk Across Multiple Diseases

A comprehensive new study from the prestigious Karolinska Institutet has uncovered alarming evidence that fatty liver disease significantly increases the risk of death from a wide range of conditions, including not only liver-related diseases but also common health issues such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. This groundbreaking research, published in The Journal of Hepatology, reveals that people diagnosed with fatty liver disease have nearly double the mortality rate compared to the general population, shedding light on the crucial role this condition plays in public health worldwide.

The Hidden Dangers of Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver disease, also known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is often termed a "silent" disease because many individuals are unaware of its presence. It typically shows no symptoms in its early stages, meaning that by the time it is diagnosed, substantial liver damage may have already occurred. The condition is most commonly linked to obesity and overweight, and as global obesity rates rise, so too does the prevalence of fatty liver disease.

In Sweden, it is estimated that around 20% of the population has MASLD, and globally, this figure rises to as much as 25%. Despite its widespread nature, fatty liver disease is often underestimated, both by patients and healthcare providers. It is crucial to recognize that this condition goes beyond just liver health – the broader implications for overall health and longevity are far-reaching.

Fatty Liver Disease and Its Impact on Mortality Rates

The study conducted by researchers at Karolinska Institutet analyzed the mortality risk of over 13,000 patients diagnosed with MASLD in Sweden between 2002 and 2020. What they discovered is both alarming and revealing. People with fatty liver disease had nearly double the mortality rate of the general population. This risk was elevated for a wide variety of diseases, not just those directly related to the liver.

The most striking findings from the study include:

• Liver Disease and Liver Cancer: The mortality rate from liver disease in individuals with MASLD was a staggering 27 times higher than in the general population. For liver cancer, this figure was even more concerning, with people with fatty liver disease facing a 35-fold increase in mortality risk.
• Cardiovascular Disease: Although liver-related mortality was elevated, the most common causes of death for individuals with fatty liver disease were cardiovascular diseases. These patients had a 54% higher risk of dying from heart-related conditions compared to the general population.
• Non-Liver Cancer: The risk of death from cancers unrelated to the liver was also significantly increased. The study found that people with fatty liver disease had a 47% higher risk of dying from non-liver cancers.
• Other Diseases: In addition to liver and cardiovascular diseases, patients with MASLD showed an increased risk of dying from various other conditions, including infections, gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory diseases, and endocrine diseases. However, the study did not find any increased risk of death from mental illness among patients with fatty liver disease.

A Holistic Approach to Fatty Liver Disease

The study’s lead researchers emphasize the importance of a holistic approach to managing fatty liver disease. Dr. Axel Wester, Assistant Professor at the Department of Medicine at Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, and one of the authors of the study, noted that "many people are unaware that they have fatty liver disease because it rarely causes any symptoms in the earlier stages." He further emphasized that while treatment often focuses on liver health, the disease’s broader impact on overall mortality must not be overlooked.

Dr. Hannes Hagström, Adjunct Professor at the Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for "a holistic approach and early intervention involving different medical specialties." Such an approach, he believes, is crucial to improving the prognosis for patients with MASLD. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes, preventing severe complications that may arise from fatty liver disease and its associated risks.

The Need for Early Detection and Comprehensive Care

Given the grave implications of MASLD on overall health, early detection and intervention are key to preventing long-term health complications and reducing mortality. Regular monitoring of individuals at risk, especially those with obesity or metabolic syndrome, is essential for detecting fatty liver disease before it progresses to more severe stages such as cirrhosis or liver cancer. Additionally, healthcare providers should take a comprehensive, multi-specialty approach to managing MASLD, addressing not only liver health but also the associated risks for cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and other comorbidities.

The Role of Lifestyle Changes in Preventing Fatty Liver Disease

While fatty liver disease is often linked to obesity, it can also occur in individuals with normal weight, especially in those with metabolic dysfunction. Therefore, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is critical in preventing the onset of MASLD. A balanced diet, regular physical activity, and weight management are crucial for reducing the risk of fatty liver disease. For individuals already diagnosed with MASLD, lifestyle changes that include weight loss and improved metabolic health can help slow the progression of the disease and reduce associated risks.

The Global Challenge of Fatty Liver Disease

The findings from this study underline the growing importance of addressing fatty liver disease as a public health concern. With the global prevalence of obesity rising and metabolic diseases becoming more common, fatty liver disease is likely to remain a significant health challenge in the years to come. Governments and healthcare systems must recognize the impact of this disease on overall mortality and allocate resources toward better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.

Conclusion: A Call for Awareness and Action

Fatty liver disease is far more than just a liver condition; it is a serious metabolic disorder that increases the risk of death from a wide range of diseases. The new study from Karolinska Institutet underscores the need for increased awareness, early detection, and a comprehensive treatment approach. As the number of individuals affected by MASLD continues to rise, it is imperative for healthcare providers to adopt a holistic view of patient care and prioritize early intervention to mitigate the risks associated with this often silent disease.

Learn more: https://www.journal-of-hepatology.eu/article/S0168-8278(25)00156-4/fulltext