1.3 billion Affected in 2023, Liver Disease Burden Set to Hit 1.8 billion by 2050: Lancet study - Video

A silent liver disease is spreading at an alarming pace-and most people don't even know they have it.

A new study published in The Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology reveals that around 1.3 billion people worldwide were living with Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in 2023—a staggering 143% increase since 1990. Drawing on data from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2023, researchers project that cases could surge to nearly 1.8 billion by 2050.

The rapid rise is largely driven by population growth and modern lifestyle factors, including increasing rates of obesity, high blood sugar, and sedentary behavior. Regions such as North Africa and West Asia continue to report disproportionately higher prevalence, highlighting geographic disparities in risk.

Despite this sharp increase in cases, the overall disease burden—measured in years lost to disability or premature death—has remained relatively stable. This suggests that improvements in early diagnosis, treatment, and disease management may be helping people live longer with the condition. However, experts warn that a growing number of patients could still translate into more cases progressing to severe complications, including liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Another concerning trend is the rising incidence of MASLD among younger adults, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Rapid urbanisation, dietary changes, and reduced physical activity are accelerating the spread of metabolic disorders in these populations.

In 2023, MASLD affected an estimated 16.1% of the global population, with prevalence rates increasing significantly over the past three decades. While the condition often remains silent in its early stages, its long-term consequences can be severe if left unmanaged.

Experts are calling for stronger public health policies, increased awareness, and early lifestyle interventions to curb its growing impact and prevent future complications.

REFERENCE: Kim S, Oh J, Shin J et al.; Global burden of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, 1990–2023, and projections to 2050: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023; The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 2026; DOI: 10.1016/S2468-1253(26)00011-7