This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Liver Awareness Month (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Liver Awareness Month is celebrated on October 1st.
Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Liver Awareness Month, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as intriguing facts you need know about National Liver Awareness Month.
📅 What day is National Liver Awareness Month 2024?
In 2024, National Liver Awareness Month is on Sunday, October 1st. It is the 1st Sunday in October; in 2024, it is Tuesday. There are until the next observance. You also can see all intriguing details and facts about October 1, 2023, that you might not be aware of.
During National Liver Awareness Month, which takes place in October, it is important to take proactive and safe steps to prevent liver disease. The American Liver Foundation reports that approximately 33,000 individuals in the United States lose their lives annually due to liver cancer. The development of cirrhosis can be attributed to various risk factors, including chronic viral hepatitis, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and unhealthy lifestyle choices. However, there is optimism as early detection can significantly increase one’s chances of survival. Throughout the month, National Liver Awareness Month organizes events nationwide to educate people about the crucial role played by the liver in the body.
📜 National Liver Awareness Month History
Liver problems have been known to humans for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians discovered liver damage in mummies caused by a common parasite condition. Even in 400 B.C., Greek physician Hippocrates described a liver abscess, and Greek mythology recognized the liver’s ability to heal from serious injuries. In more modern times, Francis Moore successfully performed the first liver transplant on a dog in 1958, followed by Dr. Thomas E. Starzl conducting the first human liver transplant in 1963. These milestones set the foundation for the liver therapies used today. In recent years, we have started celebrating National Liver Awareness Month to highlight the importance of this organ and acknowledge the advancements made in scientific research.
✅ National Liver Awareness Month Facts
🔖 It can grow back
The liver is a unique organ as it has the remarkable ability to fully regenerate itself with just a quarter of its original tissue.
🔖 It holds a lot of blood.
At any given moment, approximately 10% of your body’s blood can be found in your liver.
🔖 It’s your heaviest internal organ
An adult liver can have a weight of around three pounds, which is approximately comparable to the size of a chihuahua.
👍 Why Is National Liver Awareness Month Important
The liver is our bodies’ heavyweight champion. It’s our second-largest organ, and it’s located on your right side, just behind your rib cage. Despite weighing only roughly three pounds, your liver is the hardest-working organ. The liver’s activities include detoxification, energy production, and digestion assistance. Bottom line, you have to cherish your liver since it works tirelessly to keep all the bad stuff out of your blood.
To avoid illnesses like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), keep a healthy weight, consume a balanced diet, and exercise frequently. Keep an eye out for pollutants in your environment that might harm your vital liver cells. When using cleaning chemicals or pesticides, ensure that the space has adequate ventilation. To summarize, you only have one liver and cannot survive without it.
Anyone, even children, can get liver disease. Unfortunately, many people believe that if someone develops this condition, it is because they are misusing drugs or alcohol. This is not correct. According to the American Liver Foundation, obesity and hepatitis B and C infections are other causes of liver damage. Still, drink in moderation, since alcohol can damage and scar your liver. Finally, never take illegal substances since the euphoria is not worth risking your liver.
🙂 How To Observe National Liver Awareness Month
⚡ Bring Liver Disease Out of the Closet
If you have been silently battling with a liver illness, take the opportunity this month to share your story openly. Remember that you are not alone, so don’t hesitate to speak out with pride and confidence. There may be others who are either in denial about their own illness or behaving poorly towards those with liver diseases. By writing a post or blog, you can help raise awareness and educate others during National Liver Awareness Month.
⚡ Have a Lunch and Learn at work or school
Who wouldn’t enjoy a delicious lunch while also learning something valuable? An event like this is an ideal fit for National Liver Awareness Month. It’s a great idea to invite a speaker or even a group of health educators to join and discuss liver disease prevention over a sandwich. It would be even more impactful to have a survivor present, someone who can share their inspiring story.
⚡ Walk Your Talk and Get Involved
This month, take the opportunity to form a meaningful bond with others by offering your time to volunteer at special events or within the office for organizations like the American Liver Foundation or the American Cancer Society. Embrace the role of a social media champion and use your influence to bring about real change.
📅 When is National Liver Awareness Month?
| YEAR | DATE | DAY |
| 2024 | October 1 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | October 1 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October 1 | Thursday |
| 2027 | October 1 | Friday |
| 2028 | October 1 | Sunday |
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