NON-ALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER DISEASES AS A LEADING CAUSE TO LIVER CIRRHOSIS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37547/Keywords:
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, NAFLD, NASH, liver cirrhosis, metabolic syndrome, epidemiology, pathogenesisAbstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as the most prevalent chronic liver disorder globally, closely associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome. This review aims to analyze NAFLD as a leading cause of liver cirrhosis by summarizing current evidence on its epidemiology, risk factors, pathogenesis, and clinical significance. Epidemiological studies indicate that approximately 24–30% of adults worldwide are affected by NAFLD, with prevalence rising even among adolescents and young adults. Key mechanisms driving disease progression include hepatic fat accumulation, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation. NAFLD can progress from simple steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), advanced fibrosis, and ultimately cirrhosis, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Early recognition, lifestyle modification, and targeted interventions are essential to reduce the clinical burden and prevent long-term hepatic complications.
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