New NHS figures evidence a 25% increase in the past decade. Deaths from liver disease are strongly considered to be caused by heavy drinking, as well as obesity and hepatitis.
The National End of Life Care Intelligence Network say that the North West has the highest number of deaths and that men are dying from liver disease more than women. In cases where men are dying it is more often associated with alcohol addiction than other factors.
Deaths from other major illness such as heart disease and cancer are declining and yet it seems research and treatment associated with liver disease is not being prioritised. It seems a sad fact that early intervention and appropriate treatment and rehabilitation for those with an alcohol addiction could lead to a significant drop in these figures and yet the focus does not appear to be aimed at prevention. Indeed it seems that a number of key figures are expressing their concern:
