A growing number of Filipinos are developing metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), a “silent killer” linked to lifestyle and metabolic conditions, according to health experts. During a media conference in Taguig, Dr. Angelo Lozada, president of the Hepatology Society of the Philippines, highlighted the alarming trend of MAFLD affecting individuals as young as 30 years old.
“This is the age group where metabolic diseases like high cholesterol become prevalent,” Lozada stated, adding that this age range is often reliant on maintenance medications for conditions like hypertension and obesity.
Metabolic Conditions Driving MAFLD
MAFLD is associated with a “constellation” of metabolic conditions, including obesity, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and a large waistline. These factors collectively increase the risk of fatty liver, Lozada explained.
Dr. Jose Sollano, a professor at the University of Santo Tomas, revealed that approximately 12–18% of the Filipino population—roughly 18 million people—are living with fatty liver disease. He emphasized the impact of high sugar consumption, which converts to fat and cholesterol, increasing the likelihood of obesity and diabetes that can eventually damage the liver.
While obesity is a primary driver of MAFLD, Lozada also noted that genetics could put lean individuals at risk.
Recognizing the Symptoms and Risks
MAFLD often presents subtle symptoms, such as fatigue, abdominal discomfort, and weight loss. However, if left untreated, it can progress to more serious conditions like steatohepatitis, a form of liver inflammation that can lead to liver damage. Additionally, it raises the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease.
The Call for Early Screening and Lifestyle Changes
Dr. Yvonne Ferrer, Southeast Asia medical lead for Opella/Sanofi Healthcare, urged individuals experiencing symptoms to seek early screening for MAFLD. She highlighted the availability of tools like an AI-powered website that assesses risk based on age, waistline, height, and weight. A screening wheel, developed through research, is also set to aid doctors in identifying and monitoring the disease.
Ferrer emphasized that lifestyle modifications, including weight loss and a healthy diet, remain essential in managing and preventing fatty liver disease.
As the prevalence of MAFLD continues to rise, experts are calling for greater awareness and proactive measures to combat this silent yet dangerous health threat.
