Research reveals widespread misunderstanding of liver disease causes in the UK
Many unaware of liver disease risk factors beyond alcohol consumption and stigma persists
New research has uncovered a significant gap in public understanding of liver disease in the UK, revealing that one in three people mistakenly believe excessive alcohol consumption is the sole cause of the condition.
The study by Liver UK shows that several risk factors, including obesity, viral hepatitis, type 2 diabetes, genetic conditions, and autoimmune diseases, are often overlooked by the public.
Nearly half of those surveyed failed to recognise type 2 diabetes as a risk factor for liver disease, and only a third identified obesity as a contributing factor.
Alarmingly, one in six respondents believes that "nothing in particular" causes liver disease.
Kev Parsons, from Derby, was diagnosed with advanced liver disease alongside type 2 diabetes.
He explained: "It comes as a shock because originally I got admitted to the Royal Derby with sepsis. I don't drink, and it just turned my life upside down."
"I was all over the place to be honest.
I just couldn't comprehend it because I have always been well, it just makes me so frightened."
Kev, ineligible for a transplant due to heart issues, now manages his condition through regular medical procedures.
More than 50% of people surveyed were unaware or uncertain that liver disease could affect individuals of any age, including babies and children.
This lack of awareness is concerning as liver disease often develops without obvious symptoms, leading many to be diagnosed when significant and irreversible damage has occurred.
Statistics indicate that around three-quarters of people with liver disease are diagnosed at advanced stages where effective treatment options are limited.
His wife, Suzie, an intensive care nurse, described the stigma surrounding liver disease: "There is a massive stigma...the first thing people say is, how much do you drink?
"Are you not telling us the truth about how much you drink?
"I had another friend who I've met on this journey who supported me a hell of a lot. Her wife was told that she was a very naughty girl, and she didn't drink!"
The research highlighted that only about one in 20 people knew liver disease is a leading cause of death amongst working-age adults, causing more fatalities among people under 64 than breast cancer and road accidents.
Kev said: "It's not gonna beat me.
"I just keep going and just think to myself, I just hope for the best."
According to the findings, 62% of respondents would hesitate to disclose a liver disease diagnosis due to fear of judgment.
Suzie added: " I had my down days, don't get me wrong, but , we've probably been on more little holidays around England than we ever have done. I'm always making sure we try and do something every week.
"We can't beat it, but we're going to manage it."
Liver UK hopes the findings will help improve public understanding of liver disease and highlight the importance of recognising the wide range of causes beyond alcohol consumption.