1 in 4 Canadians are affected by liver disease. With over 100+ liver diseases, the impact of these conditions range from newborn babies to older adults.
Liver Canada is the only organization in Canada that advocates for ALL types of liver disease and complications. With over 100+ liver diseases, some common and many rare, our mission remains the same for all: to educate, prevent, support, and advocate for liver health from coast to coast to coast.
Hepatopulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a condition that affects the lungs of people diagnosed with chronic liver disease. In the lungs, capillaries, which are small blood vessels that can be found throughout the body, play a crucial role in the oxygenation of the blood. When the liver is severely damaged, the capillaries in the lungs become dilated, affecting the absorption of oxygen by the red blood cells. As a result of the dilated capillaries, the lungs are not able to provide the body with adequate amounts of oxygen, resulting in a condition known as hypoxemia.
Low levels of oxygen in the blood have a major impact on the body. Most common symptoms of HPS include shortness of breath and difficulty breathing that is relieved when lying down. A common treatment option for HPS is supplemental oxygen. The ultimate cure for HPS is a liver transplant. Once an individual has a healthy liver, the capillaries in the lungs will revert to their original size allowing the blood in the lungs to oxygenate, eliminating associated symptoms and curing the individual of HPS.
Obesity is a complex chronic disease characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the body leading to worsened health outcomes. Obesity is a multifactorial disease caused by the interaction of genetics, environment, and social factors.
Obesity is associated with hundreds of weight-related diseases including liver disease. It is a risk factor for certain liver diseases such as metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Excessive fat deposits in and around the liver can damage liver cells and cause inflammation leading to reduced liver functioning. Liver inflammation can cause irreversible liver scarring called cirrhosis which is a serious life-threatening liver condition.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the most effective way to prevent obesity and manage your liver health. Consuming a balanced diet, participating in regular physical activity, and reducing your alcohol intake are the most effective ways to prevent excessive fat in and around your liver.
Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by the body’s inability to produce or use enough insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. Insulin resistance may cause fat accumulation in the liver leading to inflammation and reduced liver functioning. Diabetes is closely related to fatty liver diseases like metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). These liver diseases are characterized by excessive fat cells in the liver which can lead to irreversible life-threatening liver scarring if left untreated.
Preventing and managing diabetes is the best way to reduce your risk of developing liver disease. This includes managing blood sugar levels, maintaining a healthy diet, participating in regular physical activity, and being screened regularly for liver disease.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic gastrointestinal tract diseases. They are similar inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) with similar symptoms and impacts on overall health. Crohn’s is a disease that can impact any part of the gastrointestinal tract whereas ulcerative colitis impacts the colon and rectum specifically. These conditions can lead to chronic inflammation in different parts of the digestive system which can increase the risk of developing many forms of liver disease. These include:
It is important that individuals with crohn’s or ulcerative colitis participate in routine screenings to monitor liver health. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle such as consuming a healthy diet, avoiding alcohol, and participating in regular exercise are additional ways help to reduce liver inflammation often associated with these diseases.
If you need help with your liver health, we’re here to listen. Liver Canada’s National Helpline offers support, guidance, and information for anyone with liver health concerns. Don’t hesitate to reach out—whether you’re seeking advice on liver diseases, treatment options, or just need someone to talk to, we’re here for you. Call us at 1-800-563-5483.
