Girona’s Trueta and Santa Caterina hospitals recorded 260 new cases of fatty liver disease in 2025, according to the Digestology Service. Doctors link the rise to poor dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles and higher obesity rates.
Most patients were diagnosed at an early stage. Of the total, 243 people, or 93%, had fatty liver without signs of fibrosis or cirrhosis. A further 17 patients, or 7%, already had fatty liver associated with cirrhosis, a more advanced stage that can affect liver health more seriously.
Specialists say the figures underline the value of early detection. Many cases are still at a point where treatment and lifestyle changes can slow the condition’s progress and improve the outlook for patients.
Fatty liver disease develops when excess fat builds up in the liver. It often causes no symptoms at first and may only be found during blood tests or imaging scans. Over time, it can lead to inflammation and scarring, known as fibrosis, and in some cases progress to cirrhosis.
To mark World Fatty Liver Day, the Trueta and Santa Caterina hospitals will hold a free screening event on Thursday, 11 June, from 9am to 2pm in the lobbies of both centres. The event is open to all residents. More information on the hospitals can be found on the Institut Català de la Salut Girona website.
Medical and nursing staff from the Digestology services will carry out hepatic elastographies using a FibroScan device. The test, which is similar to an ultrasound, measures the liver’s elasticity or stiffness and can help detect liver conditions, including fatty liver disease. Readers can also follow related local coverage on the news tag page.
Health workers will also use the day to promote balanced eating, limiting alcohol and regular physical activity as part of liver health prevention. The hospitals say prevention, early detection and healthy habits are key to stopping liver disease from advancing.
