In our recent fact-checking productions, widespread rumors highlighted excessive alcohol consumption as the primary cause of liver cirrhosis. In this section dedicated to an in-depth analysis of this condition, specialists confirm this thesis and provide additional evidence about the disease to better understand it.
Concept of the Disease:
Cirrhosis is a severe liver disease that irreversibly damages this digestive organ. Once it sets in, cirrhosis is asymptomatic, meaning it presents no signs and only starts showing symptoms when complications arise, making periodic diagnosis essential for taking necessary precautions.
Mode of Contamination:
Liver cancer may develop 15 to 20 years after cirrhosis forms. It is usually caused by three main factors:
1. Excessive alcohol consumption, accounting for 50 to 75% of cases;
2. Chronic viral hepatitis due to infection with hepatitis C or D viruses, accounting for 15 to 25% of cases;
3. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), occurring in patients with metabolic syndrome, characterized by fat accumulation in the liver accompanied by inflammation.
Reactions from Some Specialists Contacted by AFC:
According to Dr. Youssouf Oumarrou, a specialist in Hepato-gastroenterology at the Department of Medicine of the Community Hospital: “The liver is the body’s detoxification factory, and liver cirrhosis involves chronic damage to the liver from toxic substances or viruses, leading to nodules and fibrosis. Cirrhosis transforms the liver, causing it to lose its normal structure and become hardened, affecting the body. Various factors can lead to this architectural transformation, including viral or toxic agents such as alcohol or fats (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis). Alcohol is a major factor in liver cirrhosis.”
It is important to note that liver cirrhosis cannot regress once established, as it is always definitive and no treatment can cure cirrhosis. However, appropriate management can slow the progression of the condition and prevent complications.
By Marie-Paule Vopiade / Boris Zékéma / AFC
For any doubtful information or images, contact our editorial team at +236 74 02 15 70 / 75 81 61 38 / 75 38 11 73, or email us at [email protected].
