Metabolic-associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD), formerly known as Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), is an increasingly prevalent health concern in the Philippines. This condition, which involves the accumulation of excess fat in the liver, often goes unnoticed in its early stages due to the lack of obvious symptoms.
A recent gathering of healthcare professionals in Bonifacio Global City shed light on the growing “silent epidemic” of MAFLD and its rising impact on the country’s population. The disease primarily affects individuals with metabolic disorders, and its prevalence is on the rise due to lifestyle choices and dietary habits.
Understanding the Risks of MAFLD
According to Dr. Jose Sollano, a hepatologist and professor at the University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, the risk factors for MAFLD include obesity, high cholesterol, elevated triglycerides, high blood sugar levels, and a large waist circumference. Dr. Sollano explained that these conditions disrupt the body’s immuno-metabolic system, leading to the deposition of fat in the liver. This is different from fatty liver caused by alcohol consumption, which also contributes to the condition.
Dr. Sollano shared that current statistics suggest that between 10% to 18% of Filipinos are affected by Fatty Liver Disease, with a significant proportion of cases linked to metabolic disorders.
The Role of Diet and Lifestyle
Dr. Angelo Lozada, President of the Hepatology Society of the Philippines, emphasized that the Metabolic Syndrome — a combination of conditions such as hypertension, obesity, high triglycerides, and elevated cholesterol — is often overlooked in the general population. While people tend to focus on managing hypertension or cholesterol, they frequently fail to recognize the adverse effects these conditions have on liver health.
Experts also pointed to the Filipino diet as a major contributing factor. “The Filipino diet is typically high in carbohydrates and salt, both of which contribute to the development of fatty liver disease,” said Dr. Sollano. “High sugar intake leads to fatty liver, and excessive salt intake increases the risk of cancer.”
In addition to poor dietary habits, the sedentary lifestyle common in the Philippines further exacerbates the problem. Dr. Lozada noted the stark contrast between physical activity levels in the Philippines and neighboring Asian countries like Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, where walking is a daily routine. “Physical activity is critical in the treatment and prevention of fatty liver disease,” he said. “Unfortunately, in the Philippines, people tend to use cars for even short distances, which leads to minimal physical activity.”
The Silent Nature of the Disease
One of the most concerning aspects of MAFLD is its lack of symptoms. Dr. Sollano explained that many individuals are unaware they have the disease until it is detected during routine screenings, such as ultrasounds or blood tests. “We often see patients who are referred to us with abnormal blood test results, having no idea that they have fatty liver,” he said. “This disease is considered ‘silent’ because it doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages.”
Prevention and Treatment
Both Dr. Sollano and Dr. Lozada stressed the importance of a balanced diet and regular exercise in preventing and managing MAFLD. “The good news is that the treatment for fatty liver disease doesn’t have to be expensive. Eating healthy and exercising regularly can go a long way in improving liver health,” Dr. Sollano remarked.
As MAFLD continues to affect a significant portion of the Filipino population, healthcare professionals are calling for greater awareness and proactive measures to tackle the growing health crisis. Maintaining a healthy weight, adopting a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity are simple yet effective ways to reduce the risk of developing this “silent epidemic.”
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