中国第一大慢性肝病，正在透支年轻人

Core Viewpoint - The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is rising rapidly in China, particularly among younger populations, and is becoming a significant public health concern as it replaces viral hepatitis as the leading chronic liver disease [4][10][15]. Group 1: Prevalence and Demographics - NAFLD has become the most common chronic liver disease in China, with the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease reaching 21.36% by 2021 [4][7]. - A study from Wuhan University indicates that from 1999 to 2018, the overall prevalence of NAFLD approached 30%, meaning that approximately three out of ten individuals may be affected [7]. - The disease is not limited to obese individuals; about 25% of non-obese individuals in China are also affected, with a significant portion of these cases occurring in younger populations [8][10]. Group 2: Risk Factors and Health Implications - The rise in NAFLD is linked to metabolic dysfunction, with conditions such as obesity, high blood lipids, and diabetes significantly increasing the risk of developing the disease [12][14]. - The mortality rate from liver cirrhosis and liver cancer due to NAFLD has been increasing, with liver cirrhosis mortality rising from 0.36 to 0.45 per 100,000 people between 1990 and 2021, and liver cancer mortality more than doubling from 0.35 to 0.73 per 100,000 [15]. - NAFLD is associated with increased risks of cardiovascular diseases, with over 50% of NAFLD patients also having atherosclerosis, and a significant proportion facing risks of hypertension and coronary heart disease [20]. Group 3: Lifestyle and Management - Weight loss of 3%-5% can effectively reduce liver fat accumulation, while a 5%-7% reduction can significantly lower liver inflammation [27]. - A combination of dietary changes, such as reducing sugar and fat intake, along with regular aerobic exercise, is recommended for managing and potentially reversing NAFLD [27][28]. - Despite initial motivation to change lifestyle habits upon diagnosis, many individuals struggle to maintain these changes due to life pressures and temptations, leading to a cycle of neglect until the next health check [28].