Kings Liver Unit on the BBC. https://w... - British Liver Trust

British Liver Trust

38,206 members18,736 posts

Kings Liver Unit on the BBC. https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b0b8lxs3/celebrities-on-the-nhs-frontline-series-1-episode-1

LAJ123 profile image
7 Replies

A very interesting programme.

I would have preferred it if the case presented had not been alcohol related in case it reinforced the popular opinion that all liver disease is caused by drinking, however it was a thoughtful and well presented glimpse into the transplant process.

I say this as someone who's liver disease was alcohol related but recognise that those with their illness caused by another factor find the association difficult.

bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b...

Jim

Written by
LAJ123 profile image
LAJ123
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
Read more about...
7 Replies

Yes, I saw it too, I thought it might help people understand what we go through. Take care love and hugs Lynne xxxx

I'm watching it now and must say it's not doing much to change the stigma often associated with liver disease. The one person they pick had alcohol induced cirrhosis. I used to think liver disease only developed with alcoholics until it happened to me. Of course I now know that's not always the case.

Dr. Suddle featured in the programme has seen me several times when in the ward post transplant and at the liver clinic. He's fantastic!

LAJ123 profile image
LAJ123 in reply to

You are right.

They should have pointed out that in the UK, in 2017, the incidence of liver transplants for disease related to alcohol liver disease accounts for around 29%. There are however significant regional differences. Birmingham is 50% and The Royal Free is 21% ( page 21 of the report in the link below ) The link can also be found on The British Liver Trust website.

Jim

nhsbtdbe.blob.core.windows....

in reply toLAJ123

Interesting... That's a lot higher than I thought. Actually it's good they showed someone with ALD. I know plenty of people who drink like there's no tomorrow. Hopefully if they see that, they'll learn to respect their bodies a bit more.

LAJ123 profile image
LAJ123 in reply toLAJ123

Correction: Birmingham QEH - 28%

Newcastle - 50%

Kimlescam profile image
Kimlescam

I only knew 2 people with cirrhosis and neither was drink related but most people seem to think Les must have had a drink problem as he's had a liver transplant - get fed up with saying that he hasn't. but thought the program was fascinating a good insight into the good work they do.

LAJ123 profile image
LAJ123 in reply toKimlescam

I agree, although mine was related to alcohol, I always make sure people know that most do not have alcohol related liver disease.

The problem is that around 80% of the adult population do drink so it gets a bit difficult to get rid of the assumption that is so easily made when they know you had a transplant.

Jim

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

The lack of action to tackle liver disease in the UK is "scandalous" according to a group of MPs.-just posted on BBC

The lack of action to tackle liver disease in the UK is "scandalous" according to a group of MPs....
briccolone profile image

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in some cases may actually be alcoholic liver disease (ALD).

Perhaps this information has already been published on the forum. It seemed to me very interesting...
Fibro2021 profile image

Britain’s Drink Problem, BBC’s Panorama program.

I know that this program wasn't a direct liver related subject but the BBC’s Panorama program did...

Liver transplantation for alcohol-related liver disease in the UK: revised UK Liver Advisory Group recommendations for referral

There was a time when a person who required a liver transplant through alcohol abuse would have to...

Drinking with liver disease not caused by alcohol

Interesting information for those with liver disease NOT caused by alcohol who believe this means...
LAJ123 profile image

Moderation team

See all

Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.

Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.