Liver Disease Often Develops Silently. New Survey Reveals Alarming Lack of Public Awareness

Only 9% of people actively monitor their liver health despite liver disease being one of the leading causes of premature death in working-age adults, new Liver UK research reveals.

Liver disease is one of the UK's fastest-growing health concerns, yet a new survey suggests it remains largely overlooked by the public.

New research commissioned by Liver UK, the charity formed through the merger of the British Liver Trust and Children's Liver Disease Foundation, has found that only 9% of people actively think about or monitor their liver health. That is despite liver disease being one of the leading causes of premature death among working-age adults.

When 2,000 UK adults were asked to name the three health conditions they worry about most, cancer, heart disease, stroke and mental health dominated the list. Liver disease barely registered, even though it claimed over 12,300 lives across the UK in 2023. According to the latest Office for National Statistics figures, it is now the second biggest killer of people under 65 in England and Wales.

Unlike many serious illnesses that become more common with age, liver disease frequently affects people during their working years. Premature deaths from liver disease in England have risen by 42% since 2001, making it one of the few major diseases where mortality continues to increase rather than decline.

The survey also uncovered several worrying misconceptions about liver disease. One in three people incorrectly believe it is caused only by alcohol, while one in five think babies and children cannot develop liver disease. More than half of those questioned were unaware that liver disease can develop without causing any symptoms during its early stages.

That lack of awareness is particularly concerning because liver disease often progresses silently. Many people feel perfectly well until significant, and sometimes irreversible, damage has already occurred. Experts estimate that around three-quarters of patients receive their diagnosis only when opportunities for effective treatment have become much more limited.

Pamela Healy, Chief Executive of Liver UK, said the survey highlights not only a lack of understanding, but also a lack of recognition that liver disease is a major public health issue.

She told That's Health that too many families continue to experience avoidable heartbreak because the condition is detected far too late, and called on both the Government and the NHS to place greater emphasis on prevention, earlier diagnosis and improved access to care.

One family knows that heartbreak all too well.

Sara Harding lost her father, Stephen, at the age of 62, only months after he was diagnosed with advanced liver disease. Although he had previously been told he had a fatty liver, the family never realised how serious the condition could become.

Sara hopes that by sharing her father's story, more people will understand that liver disease can progress quietly for years and that knowing your personal risk factors is just as important as recognising symptoms.

For many people, simple lifestyle changes, routine health checks and earlier investigation of risk factors could make a life-changing difference. Liver disease is not always preventable, but earlier diagnosis gives the best chance of slowing or even reversing damage before it becomes irreversible.

Greater awareness today could help save lives tomorrow.

www.liveruk.org

The That's Health Right and Wrong Ways to Stay Safe During the Next Heatwave

Learn the safest ways to cope with the next UK heatwave. 

Discover common mistakes to avoid and practical tips to prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

When temperatures soar, it's tempting to reach for quick fixes to stay cool. Unfortunately, some of the most common ways people try to beat the heat can actually make things worse – or even put their health at risk.

With another heatwave likely to arrive this summer, now is the perfect time to separate the myths from the facts and make sure you, your family and your neighbours stay safe.

❌ Wrong: Waiting Until You're Thirsty to Drink

By the time you feel thirsty, you're already beginning to become dehydrated.

✅ Right:

Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. If you're sweating heavily, drinks containing electrolytes may also help replace lost salts. Limit alcohol, as it increases dehydration.

❌ Wrong: Throwing Open Every Window

Many people automatically open every window in the house.

✅ Right:

If it's hotter outside than indoors, keep windows and curtains closed during the hottest part of the day. Open them early in the morning and later in the evening when temperatures drop to let cooler air circulate.

❌ Wrong: Sitting in Front of a Powerful Fan All Day

Fans can help, but they're not a miracle cure.

✅ Right:

Electric fans work best when temperatures are below about 35°C. If they're simply blowing extremely hot air around, they may not cool you effectively. For people with allergies or respiratory conditions, consider using air purifiers or fans fitted with HEPA filtration to reduce airborne dust and pollen.

❌ Wrong: Leaving Pets or Children in Cars

Even for "just a minute".

✅ Right:

Never, ever leave children, older adults or pets in parked vehicles. Temperatures inside can rise to dangerous levels within minutes, even if the windows are slightly open.

❌ Wrong: Eating Heavy Meals

Large, hot meals can increase your body's temperature.

✅ Right:

Choose lighter meals such as salads, fruit, yoghurt and cold pasta dishes. Foods with a high water content, including watermelon, cucumber and strawberries, can also help keep you hydrated.

❌ Wrong: Ignoring Vulnerable People

Heat affects everyone differently.

✅ Right:

Older people, babies, pregnant women and those with heart, lung or kidney conditions are especially vulnerable. Check in on elderly relatives, neighbours and friends, particularly if they live alone.

❌ Wrong: Exercising During the Hottest Part of the Day

A midday jog might seem like dedication, but it can be dangerous.

✅ Right:

If you need to exercise, do it early in the morning or later in the evening. Wear loose, light-coloured clothing and drink plenty of fluids before, during and after activity.

❌ Wrong: Believing Sunburn Is the Only Risk

Heat-related illnesses can develop before your skin burns.

✅ Right:

Watch for symptoms including:

Dizziness

Headache

Muscle cramps

Excessive sweating

Nausea

Confusion

Rapid heartbeat

If someone becomes confused, stops sweating despite the heat, loses consciousness or develops a very high body temperature, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Stay One Step Ahead

Preparing for a heatwave doesn't have to be complicated. A few simple changes to your daily routine can dramatically reduce the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Keep a bottle of water nearby, stay out of the strongest sunshine between 11am and 3pm where possible, wear a hat and sunscreen outdoors, and don't forget to check on vulnerable neighbours.

The next heatwave may be just around the corner, but with a little planning and some common sense, you can stay cool, comfortable and healthy whatever the thermometer says.

Giving Loneliness a Voice: Why Connection Matters More Than Ever

As Loneliness Awareness Week marks its 10th anniversary, Marmalade Trust is calling for renewed action to tackle loneliness and strengthen social connections across the UK.

As the UK marks the 10th anniversary of Loneliness Awareness Week (15–21 June), a leading charity is calling for renewed action to tackle what has become one of the nation's most significant public health challenges.

For many people, loneliness is something that remains hidden. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, career, or circumstances. While we often associate loneliness with older adults living alone, the reality is that it can touch every stage of life, from students starting university to professionals working remotely and retirees adjusting to major life changes.

New research published by Marmalade Trust reveals 82% of UK adults have experienced loneliness at some point in their lives. Yet despite how common it is, 61% have never told anyone they felt lonely. Over half say feelings of embarrassment, shame or fear of judgement stop people from speaking openly about their experiences.

These findings are particularly poignant during this year's Loneliness Awareness Week, which carries the theme "Giving Loneliness a Voice."

Over the past decade, awareness of loneliness has improved significantly. Society has become more willing to acknowledge that loneliness is a normal human emotion rather than a personal failing. However, Marmalade Trust believes much more needs to be done.

The charity, alongside members of the Loneliness Policy Action Group, is urging government leaders to create a new cross-departmental strategy focused on strengthening social connection. Recommendations include recognising social health as an essential part of overall health, designing communities that encourage interaction, supporting workplace wellbeing, and ensuring technology enhances rather than replaces genuine human relationships.

The role of technology is becoming increasingly important. Twenty-year-old Conor Warren (PICTURED) from Devon described using AI tools during his first months at university to help process feelings of loneliness. 

While he found it useful for organising his thoughts, he quickly realised it could never replace real conversations and meaningful human interaction.

His story will resonate with many young people who feel pressure to appear happy and socially successful, even when they are struggling. The expectation that university, work, or social life should always be enjoyable can make it difficult to admit when feelings of isolation begin to take hold.

Health experts increasingly recognise loneliness as more than an emotional issue. The World Health Organization now considers it a global public health concern, with evidence linking chronic loneliness to poorer physical and mental health outcomes.

This Loneliness Awareness Week, Marmalade Trust is encouraging people across the UK to take part in simple connection activities, from sharing a cup of tea with a neighbour to joining a community walk or checking in on a colleague.

Sometimes the smallest conversation can make the biggest difference. By talking openly about loneliness and reaching out to others, we can help create communities where nobody feels they have to face it alone.

Amy Perrin, (PICTURED) Founder and CEO of Marmalade Trust, said: "Over the last decade we’ve made enormous progress in changing how people think and talk about loneliness. Millions more people recognise it as a normal human experience, and there’s a greater understanding of the impact it can have on our health, wellbeing and communities.

"But awareness alone is not enough. Loneliness continues to affect people of all ages, and the way people experience it is changing. We are seeing growing concerns around digital life, social disconnection and the pressures facing younger generations."

https://www.marmaladetrust.org

That's Health would be honoured if readers could forward this blogpost to people they know who could benefit from the wonderful works undertaken by Amy Perrin and her Marmalade Trust.

World Blood Donor Day: A Simple Act That Saves Millions of Lives

Mark World Blood Donor Day by learning how blood donation saves lives, supports hospitals and helps patients in need every day.

Every year on 14 June, countries around the world come together to mark World Blood Donor Day, a special occasion dedicated to thanking voluntary blood donors and raising awareness of the vital role blood donation plays in healthcare.

It is one of the simplest ways we can help others, yet its impact can be truly life-changing.

Why Blood Donation Matters

Blood cannot be manufactured in a laboratory. And artificial blood substitutes are, as yet, still a long way in the future.

Hospitals rely entirely on donations from generous volunteers to ensure a constant supply is available for patients who need it.

Every day, donated blood is used to help people undergoing surgery, cancer treatment, organ transplants and emergency medical care. It is also essential for treating complications during childbirth and supporting patients with serious blood disorders.

A single donation can potentially help several people, making every donor an important part of the healthcare system.

The Need Never Stops

One of the biggest challenges faced by blood services is maintaining a steady supply. Blood products have a limited shelf life, meaning fresh donations are always needed.

Demand remains high throughout the year, regardless of holidays, weather conditions or seasonal events. This is why regular donors are so valuable.

Many people assume someone else will donate, but healthcare providers depend on a broad and diverse donor base to meet the needs of different patients and blood groups.

Who Can Donate?

Most healthy adults can become blood donors, although eligibility requirements vary depending on age, weight, medical history and other factors.

If you've never donated before, World Blood Donor Day is the perfect opportunity to find out whether you could help.

Many first-time donors are surprised by how quick and straightforward the process is. The donation itself usually takes only a few minutes, while the entire appointment can often be completed within an hour.

More Than Just Blood

Donating blood offers something beyond the physical donation itself. Many donors describe a strong sense of satisfaction knowing they may have helped save a life.

In a world where many problems can feel overwhelming, blood donation is a practical and meaningful action that makes a real difference.

A Chance to Say Thank You

World Blood Donor Day is also an opportunity to recognise the millions of people who already donate regularly. Their generosity helps ensure hospitals can provide critical treatment whenever it is needed.

Whether you are a long-time donor or considering making your first appointment, this year's World Blood Donor Day is a reminder that a small act of kindness can have an extraordinary impact.

After all, giving blood doesn't just save lives, it helps build healthier, stronger communities for everyone.

https://www.blood.co.uk