Millions at risk as liver disease surge dubbed 'silent epidemic,' study warns

A major health report has warned that liver disease is rapidly becoming a “silent epidemic” across Europe, contributing to nearly 300,000 deaths each year, even though many of these cases are preventable.

The study, published by the EASL–Lancet Commission on liver health in Europe, identifies alcohol consumption, unhealthy diets, obesity and viral hepatitis as the primary drivers behind rising liver-related deaths across the continent.

Covering 27 European Union countries along with the United Kingdom, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland, the report suggests that lifestyle changes alone could potentially reduce the overall burden of liver disease by almost half. 

It also calls for stronger policy measures such as higher alcohol taxes, improved screening programmes and earlier diagnosis.

The economic impact is also significant, with liver disease estimated to cost Europe around €55 billion annually in lost productivity and healthcare-related expenses.

Health organisations in the UK have echoed these concerns. According to the British Liver Trust, more than 11,000 people die from liver disease each year in the country alone, with deaths having increased fourfold over the past five decades.

Experts note that liver disease is no longer linked solely to heavy alcohol use. Increasingly, cases are being diagnosed in individuals who drink little or no alcohol, with conditions such as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) emerging as a major concern. 

This condition is closely associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

If untreated, it can progress to severe liver damage, including cirrhosis, liver failure and even cancer. 

Researchers also warn that digital advertising and social media may be contributing to unhealthy behaviours among young people.

Health advocates are urging governments to take urgent action, stressing that many cases could be prevented with earlier intervention and stronger regulation of harmful products.