Hispanic Americans are disproportionately diagnosed with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and NASH, with estimates showing NASH rates highest in this group.
The disease affects between a quarter and a third of the U.S. population, according to estimates, and rates are rising in adults in their 20s and children. It’s also the leading cause for liver transplants in women, research shows.
Experts say patients often lack symptoms and that raising awareness is essential to help them get the care they need to manage progression.
What is nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and what are the symptoms?
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, or NAFLD, refers to a group of conditions in which too much fat is deposited in the liver but no inflammation or damage occurs to the organ.
Some fat is normal in the liver, but abnormal levels are a concern. The liver, which filters blood in the body and breaks down substances such as alcohol and drugs, produces bile, a fluid that helps digest fats eliminate wastes.
NASH is a form of the disease in which swelling occurs in the liver, caused by the buildup of fat. The inflammation can then lead to fibrosis, which is scarring and damage to the liver.
Left untreated, NASH can lead to cirrhosis, which is severe scarring and permanent damage of the liver that can lead to liver failure.
NAFL and NASH are considered “silent diseases” and usually don’t come with symptoms. But if they do, advanced forms can cause fatigue, aching in the upper right abdomen, yellowing of the skin and eyes and unexplained weight loss.
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