Plethora of data gathered over the past years has shown that obesity may be associated with liver disease and its progression. Thus, it can be postulated that worldwide epidemic of obesity can be considered as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the general population.

The authors of the study reviewed the literature based on two main problems, namely; the evidence confirming that obesity causes an increased risk of liver disease, both in the general population and in selected cohorts; and the evidence that obesity is a risk factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and disease progression in a series seen in liver units.

It was observed that obesity augmented the risk of elevated liver enzymes by a factor of two to three. However, the risk of fatty liver or steatosis is increased by a factor of three in overweight and peaks at a factor of approximately 15 in the presence of obesity, when assessed ultrasonography. Both cirrhosis (cryptogenic cirrhosis) and hepatocellular carcinoma are related to obesity in the general population. Moreover, examination of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in liver units, revealed a systematic association of obesity and weight gain with advanced fibrosis and its fibrosis.

           Therefore, the study concluded that liver disease of metabolic origin related to obesity, is currently regarded as the most prevalent liver disease in developed countries. The management approach of the obesity-associated liver disease involves lifestyle modifications that include behavior programs. These programs along with public policies at a societal level should be implemented to achieve the required outcomes in lifestyle changes.

Source: Marchesini G, Moscatiello S, Di Domizio S, Forlani G. Obesity-associated liver disease. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2008 Nov;93(11 Suppl 1):S74-80.