Exploring the links between types 2 diabetes and liver-related complications: A comprehensive review

United European Gastroenterol J. 2024 Mar;12(2):240-251. doi: 10.1002/ueg2.12508. Epub 2023 Dec 16.

Abstract

In recent decades, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes has been steadily increasing, presenting a significant global public health challenge. These epidemiological trends can be attributed to significant lifestyle changes in modern societies, characterized by sedentary behavior and the consumption of hypercaloric, highly processed foods, along with the aging of the human population. As a result, it has become crucial for both public healthcare systems and healthcare providers to prioritize the management of diabetes and identify its systemic consequences. Emerging research has shed light on the links and risks between diabetes and liver events. This comprehensive review aims to explore the complex interplay between type 2 diabetes mellitus and liver-related outcomes, especially hepatocellular carcinoma and cirrhosis, offering insights into effective methods for detecting liver risk in individuals with diabetes. Additionally, the review will assess the various treatments that could hold the potential for positive outcomes in managing both diabetes and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and liver fibrosis.

Keywords: diabetes mellitus; diabetes treatment; hepatocellular carcinoma; liver fibrosis; livertransplantation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / complications
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / diagnosis
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Liver Cirrhosis / complications
  • Liver Cirrhosis / diagnosis
  • Liver Cirrhosis / epidemiology
  • Liver Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Liver Neoplasms* / epidemiology
  • Liver Neoplasms* / etiology
  • Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease* / complications
  • Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease* / diagnosis
  • Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease* / epidemiology
  • Risk Factors