THE BRITISH Liver Trust is urging people in Yorkshire and the Humber to ‘love their liver back to health’ as part of a new campaign.

The Trust said that one in five people in the region could have live disease but be unaware, as there are usually no symptoms in the early stages.

Pamela Healy, Chief Executive, said: “90 per cent of liver disease is avoidable and sadly, the number of people being diagnosed has increased.

“More than 7,475 were admitted to hospital with liver disease in Yorkshire and the Humber in 2020/21, an increase of 42 per cent in ten years. They often don’t realise they have a problem until too late.

“A common myth is that you have to be an alcoholic to damage your liver. But one in five people in the UK drink alcohol in a way that could harm their liver.”

The Trust is encouraging people to take three simple steps.

They are:

  • To drink within the recommended limits and have three consecutive days off alcohol every week.
  • Cut down on sugar, carbohydrates and fat, and exercise more.
  • Know the risk factors for viral hepatitis and get tested or vaccinated if at risk.

The charity also urges people to take its Love Your Liver online questionnaire.