0.74 CME

Tackling NAFLD : Silent Epidemic

Pembicara: Dr. Suhas Gopal Erande

Academic Member of RSSDI Senior Consultant Physician, Akshay Hospitals, Pune

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Keterangan

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a silent epidemic characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver due to factors other than alcohol consumption. Lifestyle changes play a pivotal role in tackling NAFLD, with emphasis on adopting a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity. Reducing intake of sugary beverages, processed foods, and saturated fats can help improve NAFLD outcomes. Weight loss, achieved through a combination of diet and exercise, is one of the most effective ways to manage NAFLD. Regular physical activity not only aids in weight loss but also improves liver health by reducing inflammation. Avoiding excessive consumption of alcohol, even in the absence of alcoholic liver disease, is essential for NAFLD management. Diabetics and those with insulin resistance should work on glycemic control, as uncontrolled diabetes can worsen NAFLD. Incorporating foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help combat oxidative stress in the liver. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like salmon and flaxseeds, may have protective effects on the liver. Limiting the use of certain medications that can harm the liver and discussing alternatives with healthcare providers is crucial for NAFLD patients. Regular monitoring of liver function and liver fat levels can help track the progression of NAFLD and guide treatment decisions.

Ringkasan

  • NAFLD (Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease) is increasingly prevalent globally, affecting over 25% of adults and even more in diabetic populations, with rates in India ranging from 35% to potentially 100%. This has led to a shift in nomenclature from NAFLD to MASLD (Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease) to deemphasize alcohol as a causative factor and recognize the association with metabolic dysfunction. Other related terms include VASLD, LLD, NASID, and IRASLD.
  • NAFLD shares histological features with alcoholic liver disease but differs in clinical, laboratory, and management aspects. It's strongly linked to type 2 diabetes, visceral obesity, and insulin resistance. The number of diagnosed diabetics has surged in recent years, with a significant portion unaware of their condition.
  • NAFLD's progression involves environmental factors, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle choices. It can advance from NAFLD to NASH (Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis), fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, with this transition occurring more rapidly in diabetic patients. NAFLD is considered a multi-system disease affecting the liver, pancreas, heart, and kidneys.
  • Diagnosis of NAFLD relies on magnetic resonance spectroscopy or liver biopsy, but these methods are not widely accessible. Non-invasive tests, like FibroScan and blood markers (Fib4 score, NAFLD score, BAR score), are used for initial assessment and risk stratification.
  • Management involves lifestyle modifications, including weight loss and dietary changes. Certain anti-diabetic drugs, like GLP-1 analogs, can be beneficial. Emerging pharmacological therapies targeting specific pathways in NAFLD and NASH are also in development, with some showing promising results in clinical trials.
  • NAFLD is associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk, chronic kidney disease, and various cancers. Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in NAFLD patients. Screening for complications and treating comorbidities are essential aspects of managing NAFLD.
  • Lean NAFLD also exists. The progression of lean NAFLD to adverse outcomes is even higher than obese NAFLD. The Ministry of Health has published guidance for the detection and referral of fatty liver cases at primary healthcare centers.

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