Introduced by Adaobi Okoye, Head of Human Resources at PenOp, the session featured Dr. Akinkumi Ilori, a seasoned medical doctor and public health expert, who delivered a comprehensive presentation on liver health. Dr. Ilori began by outlining the liver’s vital roles in the body, including detoxification, metabolism, nutrient processing, and vitamin storage, underscoring its indispensable contribution to overall well-being. He emphasized the global rise in liver disease, citing alarming statistics on its prevalence and the urgent need for proactive preventive measures to curb increasing mortality rates.
Dr. Ilori highlighted the primary causes of liver damage, which include viral hepatitis (notably types A, B, and C), excessive alcohol consumption, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), drug-induced liver injury, and autoimmune conditions. He provided a detailed breakdown of hepatitis types, explaining their modes of transmission, available vaccines, and the importance of early detection. “Vaccines for hepatitis A and B are widely available and highly effective,” Ilori noted, urging participants to prioritize immunization and regular health screenings.
The session also addressed lifestyle-related risks, with Dr. Ilori debunking myths about “safe” levels of alcohol consumption. “There is no safe threshold for alcohol when it comes to liver health,” he stated, explaining that even moderate drinking can contribute to liver damage over time. He also identified obesity as a significant risk factor, linking it to NAFLD, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes. Participants were encouraged to adopt healthier lifestyles, including balanced diets, regular exercise, and weight management, to safeguard their liver health.
Diagnostic approaches were another key focus of the session. Dr. Ilori explained the role of liver function tests, imaging techniques such as ultrasounds and MRIs, and, in some cases, liver biopsies in detecting and monitoring liver conditions. He stressed that early diagnosis is critical to preventing severe outcomes, as many liver diseases progress silently in their early stages.
The discussion took a sobering turn as Dr. Ilori outlined the potential complications of untreated liver disease. He highlighted conditions such as cirrhosis, liver failure, portal hypertension, hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer), and hepatic encephalopathy, which can severely impair quality of life and, in some cases, prove fatal. “Timely intervention and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of these complications,” he reassured attendees, advocating for regular medical check-ups and adherence to medical advice.
The virtual session, described by PenOp as a resounding success, fostered active engagement, with participants posing questions and sharing insights on liver health. The organization emphasized its commitment to promoting holistic well-being among pension industry professionals, noting that such knowledge-sharing initiatives are part of its broader efforts to support employee health and productivity.
PenOp expressed gratitude to Dr. Ilori for his expertise and to participants for their enthusiastic involvement. The association plans to host more sessions on critical health topics, aiming to empower its members with the knowledge and tools to lead healthier lives. For more information on upcoming PenOp events, visit their official website or follow their updates on social media platforms, including X.