The rising global incidence of diabetes is a cause of great concern for health experts. Every year a large number of diabetic patients are increasing globally. Expressing concern in a study, Lancet has said that with the speed at which diabetes patients are increasing, there is a possibility that by the year 2050, the number of diabetes patients worldwide may increase above 130 crores. This will be a big burden on the health sector and problems due to diabetes-related diseases can increase further.
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) cautions that diabetics need to be constantly on the lookout for health problems caused by diabetes. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) cases are on the rise among adults with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, so everyone should have regular liver tests.
Liver problems in diabetic patients
About 70% of people with type 2 diabetes have liver disease, with NAFLD being the most common, the American Diabetes Association said in a news release. It can also cause cirrhosis and liver cancer. It has also been shown to increase the risk of heart disease and death in some patients.
NAFLD is a serious problem anyway, whereas if it occurs with diabetes, its severity can increase even more, so it must be investigated in all patients. ADA has also issued new guidelines regarding this.
NAFLD or liver test required
Liver disease is rapidly increasing among diabetics, says Robert Gabe, MD, chief scientist and medical officer for the ADA. Research suggests that the complications of diabetes should not be limited to heart diseases and nerve-eye problems, there can be many other side effects.
Since diabetes is a pancreatic and liver-related problem, ignoring NAFLD or any liver disease can increase the risks for patients with diabetes.
Keep the lifestyle right
According to new guidelines for diabetes patients, the ADA said liver tests should be included in routine screening for adults with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes. The risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease may be even higher because of the comorbidity of obesity with diabetes.
NAFLD is a condition in which fat builds up in your liver, even when you drink little or no alcohol.
What is the advice of experts?
Diabetes Association experts say it is most important for diabetes patients to keep weight under control to prevent such risks. Following a healthy diet, making lifestyle changes, losing weight, and making exercise a habit can not only help keep your sugar levels under control but also help prevent complications due to diabetes.
If untreated, NAFLD can lead to liver cirrhosis, which carries a risk of serious side effects.
9PC: Freepik)
