Chronic alcohol consumption is the leading cause of cirrhosis in Azerbaijan. Viral hepatitis B and C remain significant contributors. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an emerging cause. Cases increased by 191.2% from 1990 to 2019. Azerbaijan reports 51.5 cases per 100,000 people.
- Alcohol consumption: Chronic heavy drinking is the most frequent cause of liver damage.
- Viral hepatitis: Hepatitis B and C cause over 60% of regional cirrhosis deaths.
- Metabolic factors: Obesity and diabetes drive rising rates of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
- Gender trends: Men face higher risks due to increased alcohol use and viral exposure.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Baku clinics like Liv Bona Dea Hospital Baku integrate advanced transplantology for end-stage cases. Specialized gastroenterologists like Dr. Nurana Guliyeva at the Biological Medicine Center focus on viral hepatitis B, C, and D. This dual focus on viral management and surgical options reflects the complex regional disease profile.
Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize that hepatitis often remains a silent killer for decades without regular testing. Many regret ignoring moderate daily drinking habits that led to undiagnosed liver scarring over time.