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Current Treatment Options in Gastroenterology
Published in: Current Treatment Options in Gastroenterology 2/2019

01-06-2019 | Hepatic Encephalopathy | Liver (J Bajaj, Section Editor)

Contemporary Epidemiology of Cirrhosis

Authors: Jad A. Baki, Elliot B. Tapper, MD

Published in: Current Treatment Options in Gastroenterology | Issue 2/2019

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

We sought to review the contemporary epidemiology of cirrhosis, focusing on the relative burden of the most common chronic liver diseases.

Recent Findings

The key findings in the review highlight the increasing prevalence and impact of alcohol-related liver disease, particularly among young people, and the epidemic of nonalcoholic fatty liver commensurate with rising rates of obesity. We also contrast recent advances in the care of persons with hepatitis C with the lamentable rise in new infections associated with intravenous drug use. Finally, we highlight the impact of both conventional complications of cirrhosis (namely hepatic encephalopathy) but also the host of patient-reported outcomes adversely impacted by the symptoms of cirrhosis.

Summary

Cirrhosis is associated with an expanding footprint in contemporary public health. In order to improve global outcomes, we must not only focus on the identifying and treating persons with viral hepatitis but also preventing the rise of alcohol-related liver disease and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease while attending to the urgent patient-centered needs posed by the symptoms of cirrhosis.
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Metadata
Title
Contemporary Epidemiology of Cirrhosis
Authors
Jad A. Baki
Elliot B. Tapper, MD
Publication date
01-06-2019
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current Treatment Options in Gastroenterology / Issue 2/2019
Print ISSN: 1092-8472
Electronic ISSN: 1534-309X
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11938-019-00228-3

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