In time for Global Fatty Liver Day on June 13, Essentiale — the Philippines’ leading liver care brand from Opella — is drawing national attention to a fast-growing but often ignored health threat: Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, or MAFLD.
Often mistaken as a condition that only affects alcohol drinkers, MAFLD is actually a lifestyle-related disease driven by unhealthy diets, sedentary habits, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and chronic stress. In the Philippines, nearly 20 million people are already at risk. What’s even more concerning is that many don’t realize it until it’s too late.
According to local health data, 9 out of 10 obese Filipinos and 7 out of 10 diabetics are vulnerable to liver damage. The average age of fatty liver patients in the country has now dropped to just 38 years old — a clear sign that this condition is affecting people younger and earlier than ever before.
Globally, fatty liver disease has already reached epidemic levels. As of 2023, it affects 30 percent of adults worldwide, and projections suggest it could surpass 50 percent by 2040. Despite this, diagnosis and treatment remain underutilized, especially in the Philippines, where awareness is low and misconceptions are widespread.
The good news? According to research, 8 out of 10 cases of fatty liver disease are reversible — if detected early.
Dr. Jose D. Sollano Jr., a gastroenterology expert and professor at the University of Santo Tomas, emphasized the urgency of the issue. He explained that the liver performs over 500 critical functions but is often overlooked until damage is done.
“People still associate liver problems with alcohol use, when in fact, one of the fastest-rising causes is metabolic dysfunction. We’re seeing people in their 30s with liver damage and no idea it’s happening. By the time symptoms appear, it could already be too late. But we can turn things around through early detection and lifestyle changes. That’s why awareness is so important now.”
To help Filipinos take action, Essentiale has launched a nationwide campaign promoting liver education and early detection. The brand is working with pharmacists, doctors, and community leaders to distribute health materials and has introduced an online self-assessment tool, available in English and Tagalog. The tool allows users to evaluate their liver health risk and encourages them to seek proper medical guidance.
J Ann Mirasol, Global Brand Lead at Opella, explained why this campaign is so important in today’s environment.
“Too many still think fatty liver is a problem only for drinkers. But the reality is, the way many of us live today — fast food meals, long hours at desks, constant stress — is putting our livers at risk. It’s a disease of modern life. But it’s also something we can prevent and even reverse. It starts with awareness. It starts with action.”
Essentiale is urging every Filipino to stop overlooking their liver. Early detection could be life-changing — or even life-saving.
To check your risk, visit https://www.essentiale.com/en-ph/check-your-liver and take the self-assessment. Don’t wait for symptoms. Now is the time to protect your liver and your future.