Obese Kids at Risk for Liver Disease

Some obese children are developing severe liver damage, the Associated Press (AP) reported September 9. A few have needed transplants. The condition is called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. It is closely related to obesity. Experts told AP that many more of today’s obese children may need liver transplants in their 30s or 40s. Losing weight is the best treatment for early cases. It can reverse the condition if the liver is not yet badly scarred. Experts said doctors should order a blood test of liver enzymes every two years for high-risk children.