Liver damage is often associated with excessive alcohol consumption, but many people overlook other products that can pose significant risks.
The Cleveland Clinic notes that in the U.S., liver disease affects approximately 1.8% of adults, which translates to around 4.5 million people. This condition is responsible for about 57,000 deaths annually in the country. On a global scale, liver disease accounts for roughly 2 million deaths each year, making up about 4% of all deaths.
Various substances in everyday use have been linked to liver damage, some of which are not widely recognized. Understanding these products and their potential dangers is crucial for protecting liver health.
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF)
The primary purpose of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), a specialist firefighting foam, is to put out flammable liquid fires. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS), which are included in AFFF, have been connected to several health problems, including liver damage. Since PFAS are known to persist in both the environment and the human body, they are sometimes referred to as “forever chemicals.”
NIH states that PFAS can increase the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and fatty liver in animals. These chemicals can disrupt the liver’s ability to process lipids, amino acids, and glucose. Such disruptions might lead to significant health problems. Firefighters and workers in industries where AFFF is used regularly may be at increased risk, highlighting the need for safety measures and alternatives.
According to TorHoerman Law, the health risks associated with AFFF have led to numerous lawsuits across the United States. Many of these lawsuits have been filed by firefighters and military personnel who were regularly exposed to AFFF during training and emergency responses.
A June 2024 update from Lawsuit Legal News mentions that there are currently over 8,400 lawsuits related to AFFF in the U.S. District Court of South Carolina. This makes it the fastest-growing mass tort in the country, and it’s expected to keep expanding due to the solid scientific evidence against PFAS. The scientific evidence in the PFAS lawsuit that connects the use of AFFF foams to different types of cancer is exceptionally robust.
Can PFAS cause liver damage?
Yes, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) can cause liver damage. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to elevated liver enzymes and fatty liver disease. Long-term exposure is associated with a higher risk of liver-related health issues.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen, a common over-the-counter pain reliever and fever reducer is another product with a significant risk of liver damage when used improperly. While safe at recommended dosages, excessive use overwhelms the liver’s ability to metabolize the drug, leading to toxic byproducts that damage liver cells.
Acute liver failure due to acetaminophen overdose is one of the most common causes of liver transplantation in the United States. Even unintentional overdoses can occur when people take multiple medications containing acetaminophen without realizing it. This underscores the importance of reading labels and following dosage instructions carefully.
How much acetaminophen is safe?
The safe dosage of acetaminophen for most adults is up to 4,000 milligrams per day. Exceeding this amount can overwhelm the liver, leading to potential damage or failure. Always follow dosing guidelines on medication labels and consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Herbal Supplements
Many people turn to herbal supplements for their perceived natural benefits, but some of these products carry risks, particularly to the liver. Supplements containing ingredients like kava, black cohosh, and green tea extract have been associated with liver toxicity.
MedicineNet highlights that preparing a kava drink involves grinding the kava roots into a pulp, mixing it with water, and then filtering it. However, in the U.S. and other Western countries, the process often involves using solvents like acetone or ethanol for kava extraction. Kava products are readily available over the counter in the U.S., including standardized liquid extracts, dried powder, and tablets.
Kava, used for its calming effects, has been linked to cases of severe liver damage, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver failure. The unregulated nature of the supplement industry means that consumers often lack information about the potential risks of these products.
It’s crucial to consult healthcare providers before using herbal supplements, especially for those with pre-existing liver conditions or those who are taking other medications.
Do herbal supplements affect the liver?
Yes, some herbal supplements can negatively impact liver health. Ingredients like kava, black cohosh, and certain green tea extracts have been linked to liver toxicity. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider before using herbal supplements, especially if you have liver conditions.
Liver damage is a serious health concern often overlooked beyond alcohol consumption. Everyday products like AFFF, acetaminophen, and herbal supplements pose significant risks when misused or overused.
The prevalence of liver disease underscores the importance of informed consumer choices and responsible product usage. While regulations exist, gaps in oversight, particularly in the supplement industry, highlight the need for increased consumer awareness and stronger regulatory measures.
