What are some things to know about fatty liver disease?

The life expectancy for a person with fatty liver disease varies depending on the type and stage of the disease. While many people with NAFLD can live a normal life, some individuals may experience a reduced life expectancy due to complications like cirrhosis or liver failure. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

NAFLD (Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease): Some studies suggest NAFLD may reduce life expectancy by about 4 years. A 2022 study found that people with NAFLD had a lower life expectancy of about 2.8 years compared to those without the disease. 

NASH (Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis): If NASH is diagnosed early, the life expectancy is about 10 to 15 years. However, if complications develop, like swelling or fluid in the abdomen, life expectancy can decrease significantly to 3 to 5 years. 

Cirrhosis: If cirrhosis is diagnosed early, life expectancy could be around 10 to 15 years. If diagnosed later or with complications, it could be 3 to 5 years without a liver transplant. 

MASLD (Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease): MASLD may reduce typical life expectancy by 3 years. 

Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease (ALD): ALD can be fatal within 2 to 12 years of diagnosis. 

Factors Affecting Life Expectancy:

Stage of the disease:

The severity of fatty liver disease (from simple steatosis to cirrhosis) significantly impacts life expectancy. 

Complications:

Developments like cirrhosis, liver failure, or complications related to advanced stages of the disease can drastically affect life expectancy. 

Individual health and lifestyle:

Factors like diet, exercise, and adherence to treatment plans can influence how the disease progresses and impacts life expectancy. 

Early diagnosis and treatment:

Early detection and management of fatty liver disease can help prevent or slow down its progression, potentially improving life expectancy. 

In conclusion, while many people with fatty liver disease can live a long and healthy life, the outlook can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease, as well as individual health and lifestyle factors. 

For more information:

Healthgrades, WebMD, and University of Utah Health.