The British Liver Trust estimates that four out of five people who have an advanced form of liver disease in the North East don't even know they have it - and it can lead to liver failure and cirrhosis.
The charity's analysis suggested that our region has a shocking prevalence of NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis). This is the most advanced form of non-alcoholic liver disease. The BLT said the latest figures suggested there was a "growing epidemic" of the illness - and worst of all most don't know they're in danger.
Non-alcohol-related fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can develop into the more serious NASH when the fat built up around the liver becomes inflamed. This inflammation can then cause scarring and even cirrhosis - which in turn can become liver failure or cancer.
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The BLT charity has highlighted how being overweight or obese heightens your risk, too - and in the North East 70% of people fall into that category. The charity said that it is estimated that 12% of adults in the UK have NASH.
Pamela Healy, chief executive at the British Liver Trust said: "Being obese or overweight is the main risk factor for non-alcohol related fatty liver disease and experts predict that it will become the leading cause of liver disease in the UK in the next ten years.
"Early diagnosis is crucial in managing NAFLD effectively. We know that, if it is caught early, there is good evidence that losing weight can reverse damage to the liver and stop any further progression."
The charity said the best steps to prevent liver disease worsening was to take proactive steps to including maintaining a healthy diet, increasing physical activity and losing weight. The charity said research indicated that losing 5 to 10% of body weight can halt, and in some cases, even reverse liver damage in those who are overweight.
You can check whether you are at risk of liver disease by visiting britishlivertrust.org.uk/risk.
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