According to the National Health & Morbidity Survey 2023, around 28.2% (6.7 million) of Malaysian adults are affected by Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD).
Formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), this is a condition attributed to the build-up of excess fat in the liver, commonly referred to as fatty liver. This condition is associated with metabolic dysfunction and is not caused by heavy alcohol consumption.
MAFLD can lead to severe liver damage and is linked to other health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, cancer, and various other complications.
MAFLD is more prevalent in men, affecting 32% of males compared to 25% of females, with the average age of those diagnosed being 42 years old.
Stages of MAFLD
| Steatosis (simple fatty liver) |
|
| Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) |
|
| Fibrosis |
|
| Cirrhosis |
|
Symptoms of MAFLD
This condition is typically asymptomatic in the early stages. An individual is probably unaware of the condition unless it is diagnosed during tests performed for other reasons.
Individuals with NASH or fibrosis may experience a mild or aching pain in the top right part of the abdomen (over the lower right side of the ribs), extreme exhaustion, unexplained weight loss, and weakness.
If cirrhosis (the most advanced stage) develops, more serious symptoms may occur which include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes), itchy skin, and oedema (swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or tummy).
Risk Factors of MAFLD
You are at an increased risk of developing fatty liver disease if you have any of the below:
- Obesity (excess body weight, especially abdominal obesity and excess body fat around the waist)
- Metabolic syndrome (a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol or triglyceride levels)
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Diet high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and saturated fats
- Smoking
- Underlying medical condition – e.g., Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). PCOS is associated with insulin resistance and obesity. Hypothyroidism can lead to metabolic slowing and weight gain, increasing the risk of MAFLD.
Diagnosing Fatty Liver Disease
A combination of medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies will be performed for diagnosis.
| Tests | Details |
| Laboratory tests |
|
| Imaging studies |
|
| Liver biopsy |
|
Treating and Preventing Fatty Liver Disease
The treatment of MAFLD focuses on managing underlying risk factors and adopting lifestyle changes to improve liver health and prevent liver disease, which include:
- Healthy and balanced diet and control portion sizes.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Regular physical activity.
- Maintain good control of blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels within the normal range through diet, exercise, and medications (if prescribed).
There are no specific medications approved to treat fatty liver disease directly at the moment. However, certain medications may be prescribed to manage associated conditions and reduce liver inflammation and damage.
Advanced treatments such as liver transplant may be necessary in cases where MAFLD has progressed to significant liver damage, such as cirrhosis or liver failure.
Make an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
Get in touch with us to book an appointment today if you have concerns or questions regarding Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease. A dedicated and expert team of gastroenterology and hepatobiliary specialists at Gleneagles Hospitals is available for consultation to provide the best care and assistance. We assure you the best possible care tailored to your specific needs.
