A detailed study conducted by researchers at Karolinska Institutet reveals that individuals diagnosed with fatty liver disease face nearly double the mortality rate compared to the general population. According to findings published in The Journal of Hepatology, these individuals exhibit heightened risks of death not only from liver-specific diseases but also from prevalent conditions such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.
In Sweden, approximately one in five individuals suffer from fatty liver disease, specifically referred to as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Globally, this figure could rise to around one in four people. The primary cause of MASLD is excessive body weight or obesity, which results in abnormal fat accumulation within the liver. This accumulation can progress to severe liver injury and even liver cancer.
A key challenge with fatty liver disease is its stealthy nature, as many affected individuals remain unaware of their condition, particularly in the initial stages when symptoms are rarely evident. Axel Wester, an assistant professor at the Department of Medicine, Huddinge, at Karolinska Institutet, and a physician at Karolinska University Hospital, points out that their research highlights a broader spectrum of health risks faced by MASLD patients, extending far beyond liver-related illnesses.
The research team analysed health records of over 13,000 Swedish patients diagnosed with MASLD between 2002 and 2020, examining mortality rates from various causes compared to those of the broader population. The study’s findings indicated an overall mortality rate nearly double that of the general populace. While risks were elevated for virtually all categories of death investigated, they were notably pronounced for liver-specific conditions. Mortality risk from liver disease was 27 times higher, and death due to liver cancer reached a staggering 35 times higher among MASLD patients compared to the general population.
Nevertheless, the study also found that the most common causes of death among MASLD patients were cardiovascular disease and non-liver cancers, exhibiting mortality rates of 54 per cent and 47 per cent higher, respectively. Beyond these primary concerns, individuals with MASLD also faced increased risks of death from infections, gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory conditions, endocrine diseases, and external injuries or accidents. Interestingly, the research did not indicate an increased risk of death from mental health conditions.
Hannes Hagström, adjunct professor at the Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, and senior physician at Karolinska University Hospital, emphasised the importance of a more comprehensive healthcare strategy for individuals suffering from MASLD. Rather than concentrating solely on liver health, Hagström advocates for a holistic and multidisciplinary approach. Early intervention and integrated care spanning various medical specialities is essential to improve patient outcomes and overall prognosis effectively.
More information: Hannes Hagström et al, Cause-specific mortality in 13,099 patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in Sweden, Journal of Hepatology. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2025.03.001
Journal information: Journal of Hepatology Provided by Karolinska Institutet
