World Liver Day (WLD) is a global health observance marked annually on April 19th, aimed at increasing awareness about liver diseases among the general populace. Collaborative efforts between international and local governing bodies orchestrate various educational initiatives on this day, focusing on the severity, early detection, and prevention of liver ailments.
The liver, the second-largest and most essential organ in the human body, serves myriad functions, including metabolism, digestion, immunity, toxin filtration, and nutrient storage. Despite its remarkable regenerative capacity—capable of regrowing up to 60 to 70% after damage—any aberrations in liver function can lead to grave health complications.
Significance of World Liver Day (WLD)
Globally, liver diseases claim approximately 20 lakh lives annually, with liver cirrhosis accounting for half of these fatalities, and the remainder attributed to viral hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Collectively, cirrhosis and liver cancer constitute 3.5% of global mortality, with cirrhosis ranking as the 11th leading cause and liver cancer as the 16th globally, and 10th in India.
Approximately 200 crores of the global population are regular alcohol consumers, with 7.5 to 10 crores at risk of alcohol-related liver disease. Moreover, 200 crores are overweight or obese, and 40 crores are diabetic, predisposing them to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and hepatocellular carcinoma. While viral hepatitis remains prevalent, drug-induced liver injury is emerging as a primary cause of acute hepatitis, with a projected 35% increase in new cases annually by 2030 compared to 2005.
This surge in liver disease prevalence underscores the critical need for heightened awareness regarding disease severity, risk factors, and prevention strategies. On World Liver Day, hepatological experts, including healthcare policymakers and private practitioners, disseminate knowledge about liver disease risks and prevention methods, advocating for dietary and lifestyle modifications. Additionally, WLD serves as a platform for educating the public about liver disease symptoms and the importance of early detection, as many liver conditions are asymptomatic.
Theme for World Liver Day 2024
The theme for World Liver Day 2024 is “Be Vigilant, Get Regular Liver Check-Ups, and Prevent Fatty Liver Diseases.” This theme underscores the global imperative of understanding liver health and the diseases that threaten it, empowering individuals with actionable steps to protect liver well-being.
Historical Background of World Liver Day
World Liver Day was inaugurated in 2010 by the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) to commemorate its founding in 1966. April 19th was chosen as the day to honor EASL’s inception and its ongoing commitment to liver health advocacy.
Measures for Maintaining Liver Health
Maintaining a healthy liver is paramount for overall well-being. Here are some measures to support liver health:
- Consume a balanced diet rich in protein and fiber.
- Engage in regular exercise and stress-reducing activities like meditation.
- Abstain from alcohol and smoking.
- Avoid self-medication and adhere to prescribed medications.
- Ensure timely vaccination against hepatitis viruses.
- Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
- Practice safe behaviors, such as avoiding sharing contaminated needles and practicing safe sex.
World Liver Day serves as a vital reminder of the importance of liver health and the collective responsibility to safeguard it. By raising awareness, promoting preventive measures, and advocating for early detection, we can combat liver diseases and enhance global health outcomes.