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By Henry Uche
As part of its efforts in improving the knowledge base of industry practitioners and creating an opportunity for networking, engagements and knowledge exchange, the Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria (PenOp), has sensitized stakeholders on liver damage, prevention, and management.
The sensitization took place during a virtual session with over 300 participants from various pension operators, providing a practical platform for learning, awareness, and engagement.
The session began with an overview of the liver’s critical functions, including detoxification, metabolism, and vitamin storage, emphasizing its central role in overall health.
The Head of Human Resources at PenOp, Adaobi Okoye, ushered Dr. Akinkumi Ilori, a seasoned medical doctor and public health expert who highlighted the global prevalence of liver disease and the urgent need for preventive strategies to combat rising mortality rates.
Dr. Ilori 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 explained the differences between types of hepatitis, available vaccines, and early warning symptoms, stressing that prevention and timely medical intervention are essential in reducing long-term complications.
On lifestyle and risks, the medical practitioner clarified that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption, pointing out obesity as a leading contributor to liver disease, alongside cardiovascular conditions and Type 2 diabetes. He also discussed diagnostic methods such as liver function tests, imaging techniques, and biopsies, which are critical in detecting and monitoring liver conditions.
Attendees were also guided through “potential complications of untreated liver disease, including cirrhosis, liver failure, portal hypertension, hepatocellular carcinoma, and hepatic encephalopathy.“
The presentation emphasized 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. 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.
Attendees received clarifications on vaccination, genetic factors, liver cysts, and organ donation. Ilori provided detailed, practical responses, making the session both dynamic and highly interactive.
Ilori encouraged the participants to “prioritize routine health checks, adopt safe practices, and promote liver health awareness within their organizations. “
