30% of Israelis have this condition: A look at non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

• Published date: 09 April 2024
• Author: DR. ASSAF ISASCHAR
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

The prevalence of the disease is increasing due to unhealthy dietary habits, a sedentary lifestyle, and obesity among the population. The rate of NAFLD in Israel is estimated at about 30% of Israelis, including children and adolescents, making it a very common disease. NAFLD is the accumulation of fat in the liver that can lead to inflammation, scarring, and significant liver damage leading to cirrhosis and liver failure

In most cases, the disease is diagnosed randomly as there are no specific symptoms in the early stages except for findings in blood tests or through an ultrasound. The severity of the disease can be diagnosed through various methods, including biopsy or FibroScan Testing, which non-invasively assesses liver stiffness and fat content.Only in later stages of the disease do signs related to liver damage appear. The main reason for fatty liver is linked to the metabolism, which includes excess weight, diabetes, high blood pressure, and excess fats in the blood.

The rise in the prevalence of obesity among the population contributes to the increase of NAFLD, as well as in other components of metabolic disorders. Lack of physical activity and a processed sugar-rich diet, including sugary drinks, are closely related to obesity, the development of diabetes, and the development of NAFLD.

How is NAFLD treated?

The basis of treating NAFLD involves lifestyle changes - a healthy diet that reduces processed foods, sugar, and carbohydrates, moderate physical activity...