Health experts are concerned following an increase in hospital admissions at the hands of a "silent" but potentially deadly condition. Charities are calling for urgent action to address increasing rates of liver disease across England.
In the financial year ending 2022, hospital admissions where the primary diagnosis was liver disease rose by 22 per cent. There were 82,290 admissions in 2022 compared to 67,458 in 2021, according to the latest NHS data.
It comes following an increasing trend which has seen liver disease-induced hospital admissions increase by almost 47 per cent compared to ten years ago, BirminghamLive reports. Worryingly, experts say that people living in deprived areas are more likely to be at risk of developing liver disease.
Read more: Six signs to watch out for as case of deadly Victorian disease detected at school
Liver disease, according to the British Liver Trust, often goes undetected in the early stages, "exhibiting minimal to no symptoms". The Trust adds that the condition is "almost entirely preventable", with the major risk factors - alcohol, obesity and hepatitis B and C accounting for up to 90 per cent 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."
Click here for more health news.
