Fatty liver symptoms to watch before it turns cancerous: Who's most at risk and what lifestyle changes can help
, now referred to as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is becoming increasingly common, particularly among individuals who are overweight, diabetic, or living with metabolic syndrome. While early stages of the condition might not cause any visible symptoms, health experts caution that without timely intervention, it can advance into a more serious condition called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), which significantly heightens the risk of liver cancer.
According to the MD Anderson Cancer Center at the University of Texas, MASH can lead to liver inflammation, fibrosis, and cirrhosis—each a known precursor to hepatocellular carcinoma, the most common type of liver cancer. Though the disease can remain silent in its early stages, regular screening and lifestyle changes can help prevent long-term complications.
Explore courses from Top Institutes in
Please select course:
Select a Course Category
Public Policy
Data Analytics
healthcare
PGDM
Operations Management
MBA
Cybersecurity
Others
Digital Marketing
MCA
Data Science
CXO
Healthcare
Data Science
Leadership
Finance
others
Artificial Intelligence
Design Thinking
Product Management
Technology
Degree
Management
Project Management
Skills you'll gain:
Duration:
12 Months
IIM Calcutta
Executive Programme in Public Policy and Management
Starts on
undefined
Get Details
Skills you'll gain:
Economics for Public Policy Making
Quantitative Techniques
Public & Project Finance
Law, Health & Urban Development Policy
Duration:
12 Months
IIM Kozhikode
Professional Certificate Programme in Public Policy Management
Starts on
Mar 3, 2024
Get Details
Understanding MASLD and Its Link to Cancer
MASLD involves the accumulation of fat in the liver in people who consume little or no alcohol. While MASLD itself may not be immediately dangerous, around 25% of affected individuals may develop MASH. This progression brings inflammation and damage to liver cells, eventually causing fibrosis (scarring) and possibly cirrhosis. Internal medicine specialist Dr. Jessica Hwang explains that once fibrosis has developed, the damage is difficult to reverse and increases cancer risk due to long-term cellular injury and inflammation.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Mountain Gear for Extreme Conditions
Trek Kit India
Learn More
Undo
What makes this disease particularly risky is that even those without cirrhosis may still face elevated cancer risk if they have MASH, as chronic inflammation remains a driver of cellular changes in the liver.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Several groups of people are more susceptible to MASLD and its complications:
Individuals who are overweight or obese, especially with abdominal fat
Those with type 2 diabetes
People with high cholesterol or triglycerides
Individuals with high blood pressure
Those with metabolic syndrome, defined by a combination of obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels
People with a family history of liver disease
According to Dr. Hwang, the presence of these conditions not only raises the risk of MASLD but also increases the likelihood of progression to MASH and liver cancer.
Recognising the Signs
Fatty liver disease is often termed a 'silent' condition. Most people experience no noticeable symptoms until the disease becomes advanced. However, there are some potential warning signs, such as:
Ongoing fatigue
Discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen
Elevated liver enzymes seen in routine blood tests
Enlarged liver visible through imaging
Unexplained weight loss in more advanced cases
Because symptoms can be minimal or entirely absent, early detection through blood tests, ultrasounds, or MRIs is especially important for people with risk factors.
How to Lower Your Risk
Experts emphasize that the condition is not only preventable but often reversible if caught early. Key preventive measures include:
Maintaining a healthy weight:
Losing just 5–10% of body weight can improve liver health.
Eating a balanced diet:
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and lean proteins helps reduce fat buildup in the liver.
Exercising regularly:
At least 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of intense exercise weekly is recommended.
Improving sleep quality:
Poor sleep can increase insulin resistance and weight gain, worsening liver health.
Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol:
These substances can further damage the liver and heighten cancer risk.
Managing cholesterol and blood sugar:
Through a combination of diet, medication, and physical activity.
Hydration and routine check-ups are also vital. If you belong to a high-risk group or have symptoms, speaking with your doctor about liver screening and new treatment options, including certain weight-loss medications, can be critical.
Fatty liver disease might start off as a minor health issue, but its potential to evolve into MASH and even liver cancer makes early intervention crucial. With rising cases globally, especially among those with poor dietary and exercise habits, the condition is increasingly viewed as a serious health threat. Fortunately, the path to better liver health lies largely in lifestyle choices.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Health dept distances itself from rape accused
Gaya: The health department has clarified that the ambulance driver and technician accused of raping a home guard job aspirant in Gaya are not its regular employees but were hired through a private agency. The alleged incident took place on July 24 when the woman was raped inside a slow-moving ambulance between the Bihar Military Police (BMP) ground and Anugrah Narayan Magadh Medical College Hospital. Speaking to reporters, Gaya civil surgeon Dr Raja Ram Prasad said, "Both the driver and the technician are not regular employees of the health department. Their recruitment was done by a private agency engaged at the state level. Therefore, the question of departmental action against them does not arise." When asked whether background checks had been conducted before the duo were deployed, the civil surgeon said, "It is for the agency to explain." On the medical report of the survivor, Bodh Gaya SDPO Saurav Jaiswal said it was expected to be made available soon. "The sealed report will be received by the investigating officer, Rinku Kumari," he said. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Gaya SSP Anand Kumar said the survivor's statement would be recorded before a judicial magistrate. "The statement will be taken under Section 183 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which is the amended version of Section 164 of the CrPC," he said. Meanwhile, questions have been raised over possible administrative lapses at the recruitment venue. Authorities have yet to clarify whether a doctor was present at the site or who authorised the woman's hospitalisation without standard precautions, such as ensuring a woman attendant accompanied her.
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
The best time to drink apple cider vinegar (and when you should not)
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has become a popular home remedy known for its potential health benefits, from aiding weight loss to stabilizing blood sugar levels. But like most supplements, timing matters. When and how you take ACV can make a difference in its effectiveness and in avoiding unwanted side effects. What is Apple cider vinegar? Apple cider vinegar is made by fermenting the sugars in apples into acetic acid — the primary active ingredient responsible for its sour taste and health benefits. ACV comes in two main forms- filtered and unfiltered. Sometimes, other fruits such as raspberries are added to create flavored versions, but the base remains apple. Potential health benefits of apple cider vinegar Research suggests that apple cider vinegar may support health in the following ways: Improves blood sugar and insulin levels after high-carb meals Boosts satiety, helping you feel full and consume fewer calories Aids weight loss and reduces body fat May support heart health by improving cholesterol and blood pressure Offers anti-microbial effects, similar to other vinegars While some of these findings are promising, most studies are small, and more research is needed to draw firm conclusions. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Flexible MBA by SRM—Apply Now! SRM Online Apply Now Undo Best times to drink apple cider vinegar In the morning Taking ACV in the morning may be effective for those looking to manage weight and blood sugar. In one clinical trial , participants who consumed up to one tablespoon of ACV daily for 4–12 weeks experienced reductions in: Blood sugar levels Body weight (average 6–8 kg loss) BMI (up to 3-point drop) Waist and hip circumference Total cholesterol and triglycerides Though results are encouraging, more large-scale studies are needed to confirm these benefits across different groups. Before meals Some evidence suggests that drinking ACV before meals may: Decrease appetite Help you feel full faster Improve blood sugar response after eating For example, a small study found that ACV slowed stomach emptying in people with type 1 diabetes. Another trial in overweight adults noted reduced appetite and increased weight loss. While promising, these studies had limited sample sizes and may not apply to everyone. When you should avoid taking ACV While generally safe in small amounts, apple cider vinegar can cause side effects if misused: ACV's acidity may cause stomach upset or nausea if taken undiluted or on an empty stomach. Always dilute ACV in water, as the acid can damage tooth enamel. ACV may interfere with diuretics, insulin, or heart medications. Consult your doctor if you're on regular prescriptions. Taking it too close to bed might cause reflux or throat irritation, especially if you lie down shortly afterward.
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Hidden heart attack: Why they are dangerous, and how to identify one
Myocardial infarction (MI), most commonly known as a Heart attack, is caused by decreased or complete shut-off of blood flow in the portion of the Myocardium. Now, it can be 'silent' and often go undetected until it's too late, resulting in a sudden death. Most of them are due to underlying coronary artery occlusion when the myocardium is deprived of oxygen. Some patients complain about discomfort in the chest or pressure in the neck, jaw, and shoulders. According to the clinical findings summarized by the NCBI ( study titled: Myocardial Infarction) , coronary artery disease remains the most common underlying cause of heart attacks. Symptoms that people often ignore, but should take note of Chest pain or pressure Shortness of breath Sweating, nausea, light-headedness Pain in left arm, jaw, or back Why does a heart attack often go unnoticed? People often don't learn they had a heart attack until they get an electrocardiogram (ECG) or a stress test, and the doctor notices signs consistent with heart damage. Silent heart attacks involve a blockage of blood flow to the heart. Silent MIs have nonspecific symptoms like fatigue, indigestion, or a brief episode of shortness of breath. some of us may take them for minor ailments or signs because they lack dramatic warning signs; silent heart attacks often remain undiagnosed. You might be sitting around casually, not knowing your heart is troubled. Who is the most at risk? According to a study published back in 2023, titled Myocardial Infarction, certain groups that are the most vulnerable to silent heart attacks are: Women, who may experience subtler symptoms Older adults, aging, might be a cause Diabetics, who often have damaged nerve endings People with High Blood Pressure What are the lifestyle modifications one can adopt to prevent heart attacks? Control your cholesterol: There have been several studies that correlate heart attacks with high cholesterol. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Paras Sector 59 Gurgaon | Luxury Awaits at Paras Floret Paras The Florett Book Now Undo One of the best methods to prevent a heart attack is by keeping your cholesterol levels under control. If your high cholesterol is not controlled over time, it can result in clogged or narrow arteries, which can completely close up, resulting in a myocardial infarction. Lead a healthy lifestyle: Have balanced meals high in fiber and low in trans fats, remain physically active, stop smoking, and keep a healthy weight. Besides exercising every day, you also require quality sleep to be able to withstand the day. Get screened : Keep track of your blood pressure and get periodic check-ups. If there is a history of overweight or obesity in your family, make sure that you adopt a healthy regimen to prevent heart attacks Avoid excessive alcohol consumption: Excess alcohol consumption can increase triglyceride levels and blood pressure, both risk indicators for heart attacks. Silent Myocardial ischemia occurs more frequently than you realize. Of individuals with coronary artery disease, about 70-80 percent of ischemic events take place with no symptoms like chest pain, as described in the study issued by the National Library of Medicine in 2024, entitled "Silent Myocardial Ischemia." In the general middle-aged group, treadmill testing has indicated that about 2-4 percent of men have silent Ischemia. In all, silent heart attacks comprised an estimated 20-30 percent of total myocardial infarctions. Remember, heart attacks don't always arrive in a flash. Occasionally, they sneak up slowly and have a lasting effect. Don't wait for something to occur to alter the way you live, listen to your body and attend regular check-ups.
