The Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria (PenOp) recently hosted knowledge-sharing session on liver damage, its prevention, and management. Also highlighted is the global prevalence of liver disease and the urgent need for preventive strategies to combat rising mortality rates.
The virtual session, which was introduced by Adaobi Okoye, Head of Human Resources at PenOp, featured Dr. Akinkumi Ilori, a medical doctor and public health expert. The session attracted over 300 participants from various pension operators and provided a practical platform for learning, awareness, and engagement.
He outlined the major causes of liver damage, such as viral hepatitis, excessive alcohol consumption, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, drug-induced injury, and autoimmune conditions. He also explained the differences between types of hepatitis, available vaccines, and early warning symptoms, stressing that prevention and timely medical intervention remain essential in reducing long-term complications.
On lifestyle risks, he cleared that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption and noted obesity as a leading contributor to liver disease, alongside cardiovascular conditions and type 2 diabetes. Also discussed was diagnostic methods such as liver function tests, imaging techniques, and biopsies, which are critical in detecting and monitoring liver conditions.
Participants were further guided through potential complications of untreated liver disease, including cirrhosis, liver failure, portal hypertension, hepatocellular carcinoma, and hepatic encephalopathy were encouraged to prioritise routine checks and promote liver health awareness within their organisations. Dr Ilori emphasised the role of lifestyle changes such as balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and responsible medication use in both prevention and management.
The webinar also touched on broader aspects of liver health, including transplant procedures, living donor opportunities, and the importance of annual wellness checks. Dr. Ilori debunked myths around detox teas and supplements, reiterating that sustainable lifestyle habits are more effective than quick fixes. Other discussions explored risks linked to steroids, energy drinks, and environmental factors such as aerosols and perfumes.
The fascinated attendees engaged the health expert on vaccination, genetic factors, liver cysts, and organ donation and he provided detailed, practical responses, making the session both dynamic and highly interactive.
