A Hidden Epidemic: Rising Liver Disease in Malaysia

Malaysia is experiencing a worrying surge in liver disease, largely driven by alarming rates of obesity and diabetes. Medical professionals are sounding the alarm about potential health crises if this trend continues unchecked.

NAFLD: The Silent Scourge

Dr. Lim Chong Wei, a Consultant General Physician and Endocrinologist at Sunway Medical Centre, highlights that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)—now known as metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease—is closely linked to these metabolic disorders. The disease, characterized by fat buildup in the liver, can quietly morph into severe conditions like inflammation and cirrhosis.

"NAFLD is now the leading cause of chronic liver disease globally, with Malaysia's unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle fuelling its rise," Dr. Lim told Bernama.

The Diabetes Connection

Specifically, Type 2 diabetes is a major culprit, exacerbating liver damage by increasing insulin resistance and fat storage in the liver. Dr. Lim warns that NAFLD often has no visible symptoms and patients may remain oblivious until the disease progresses significantly.

Urgent Need for Screening and Early Detection

The importance of early screening cannot be overstated, especially for individuals already struggling with obesity or diabetes. Simple diagnostic methods like blood tests to measure liver enzyme levels and abdominal ultrasounds can catch NAFLD before it's too late.

"Routine screening should be prioritized. These straightforward tests can detect liver damage early on," Dr. Lim stated.

Healthcare System at Risk

Even though only 1 to 2 percent of NAFLD cases deteriorate to cirrhosis, the sheer volume of new cases threatens to overwhelm Malaysia's healthcare infrastructure if proactive measures are not implemented soon.

Shocking Statistics from 2023 Survey

The recently published 2023 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) reveals a staggering statistic: over half of Malaysia's population is now classified as overweight or obese, escalating from 50.1 percent in 2019 to 54.4 percent last year. Additionally, 2.3 million Malaysian adults suffer from three major non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

A Call for Lifestyle Changes

Dr. Lim stresses the urgent need for comprehensive lifestyle modifications to combat NAFLD. This includes adopting healthier eating habits, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a sustainable body weight.

"For those with diabetes, regular liver function monitoring is critical, as timely intervention can ward off complications like liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma," Dr. Lim emphasized.

Hope in Weight Loss

For individuals already diagnosed with NAFLD, Dr. Lim advocates for targeted strategies such as structured weight management programs and stricter blood glucose control. Remarkably, a modest weight loss of just 5 to 10 percent can lead to drastic improvements in liver fat and inflammation.

"The focus must be on early detection and consistent lifestyle changes. Failing to act may usher in a silent but devastating public health crisis," he concluded.