6 Critical Factors That Threaten Liver Health

Liver diseases rank among the most common health problems globally. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, cirrhosis and chronic liver diseases cause approximately 2 million deaths annually and rank in the top 10 leading causes of death worldwide.

The liver, essentially a chemical laboratory of the body, undertakes critical functions such as converting nutrients into energy, removing toxins and producing vital substances. Prof. Dr. Hakan Yıldız, Gastroenterology Specialist at Acibadem University Atakent Hospital, states, "The liver's proper functioning is vital for a healthy life. However, certain factors can lead to liver cell death. Damage typically progresses silently for many years and can result in serious consequences such as inflammation, fibrosis or cirrhosis."

Prof. Dr. Hakan Yıldız lists the 6 most common factors threatening liver health and preventive measures as follows:

1. Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is the most widespread type of viral hepatitis globally. It typically passes from mother to child and can lead to chronic liver disease. Over the years, liver cell damage can occur and create the foundation for cirrhosis or liver cancer.
Prevention: Hepatitis B vaccination typically provides lifelong protection.

2. Obesity and Fatty Liver
Today, obesity leads to "fatty liver," the primary cause of liver disease. Fatty liver can cause serious long-term damage and situations requiring liver transplantation. Research shows that approximately 80% of obese individuals develop fatty liver.
Prevention: Balanced nutrition, walking at least 30 minutes daily, reaching ideal weight or losing 8-10% of current weight, and consuming 2-3 cups of filtered coffee daily support liver health.

3. Medications and Herbal Products
Certain painkillers and herbal products, when used unknowingly, can cause acute inflammation and toxic hepatitis in the liver. This condition can result in fatigue, jaundice and, in advanced stages, liver failure.
Prevention: Avoid viewing medications and herbal products as "harmless"; do not use any product without medical recommendation.

4. Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Toxic byproducts form during liver breakdown of alcohol and damage cells. Over time, serious damage such as fatty liver, inflammation and cirrhosis can develop.
Prevention: Consuming alcohol within safe limits and infrequently (not exceeding 2-3 glasses weekly) is critical for liver health.

5. Genetic Diseases
Some liver problems arise from genetic causes. Genetic disorders can prevent the liver from performing certain functions; for example, bile production and utilization may be impaired or copper and iron balance affected.
Prevention: Through early diagnosis and regular health check-ups, most genetic liver diseases can be managed with medications.

6. Autoimmune Liver Diseases
Diseases such as autoimmune hepatitis and primary biliary cholangitis can develop in genetically predisposed individuals when infections, medications or inflammation in the liver are triggered.
Prevention: These diseases can be treated with early diagnosis. Regular monitoring is important for family members of individuals with autoimmune liver disease.

Prof. Dr. Hakan Yıldız emphasizes that the most fundamental way to protect liver health is maintaining a healthy weight and undergoing regular health check-ups.