A potentially deadly condition that often remains silent in its early stages with few symptoms is putting more people in hospital, alarmed health experts have said. Charities are demanding urgent action to address rising rates of liver disease across England.
Hospital admissions where the primary diagnosis was liver disease rose by 22 per cent in the financial year ending 2022, as reported by Birmingham Live. There were 82,290 admissions in 2022 compared to 67,458 in 2021, latest NHS data showed.
The recent rise follows an upwards trend in hospital admissions due to liver disease, which have increased by almost 47 per cent compared to 10 years ago. Worryingly experts say people in more deprived areas are likely to be more at risk of developing liver disease.
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The British Liver Trust says liver disease often remains silent in its early stages, "exhibiting minimal to no symptoms". It adds the condition is "almost entirely preventable" with the major risk factors alcohol, obesity and hepatitis B and C accounting for up to 90% of cases.
Three-quarters of people are diagnosed with cirrhosis, the most severe form of liver disease, when it is often too late for effective intervention or treatment. Vanessa Hebditch, director of policy at the British Liver Trust, said "These figures once again demonstrate how action is needed.
"The British Liver Trust is calling for a prompt and comprehensive review of adult liver services to address the huge variation and inequalities in liver disease treatment outcomes and care. The surge in hospital admissions emphasises the urgent need for immediate action to tackle the growing burden of liver disease on the NHS and society as a whole."
The trust is calling on the Government to "prioritise investment in prevention and early diagnosis of liver disease". Ms Hebditch added: "Addressing the root causes of liver disease, such as alcohol misuse and obesity, should be at the forefront of the Government's agenda.
"By allocating resources to education, raising awareness, and promoting healthier lifestyles, we can collectively work towards reducing the burden of liver disease and improving the well-being of individuals across the country."
