A recent study has shown that fatty liver disease not only affects the liver, but may also significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.
Researchers analyzed data from 3,600 patients who underwent examinations due to chest pain. Using computed tomography (CT) scans, they assessed the condition of the coronary vessels and simultaneously checked for fatty liver disease, as the examination includes a portion of the liver. It was found that more than a quarter of the participants (26%) had fatty liver disease.
Scientists have observed that people with fatty liver disease have 24% more dangerous non-calcified plaques in their blood vessels. These plaques are particularly dangerous because they are more prone to rupture and can cause blood clots, leading to heart attacks or strokes.
During the follow-up period, serious cardiovascular complications (such as death, heart attack, or hospitalization for unstable angina) were recorded in 4.1% of those with fatty liver disease, compared to 2.5% of those without the disease. Even after taking into account other risk factors, fatty liver disease was associated with a 69% increased risk of serious cardiac complications.
Researchers believe that regular CT scans may help identify patients at increased risk of cardiovascular disease early on, and then promptly begin taking preventive measures.
