Shailesh Vara MP attended a Parliamentary reception hosted by the British Liver Trust, which seeks to promote the importance of early detection in treating liver disease.

The Trust is the UK’s leading charity for adults affected by liver disease. The organisation provides information and support to those affected, including for liver cancer, and it works to expand awareness to the wider public.

Mr Vara spoke with Ms Vanessa Hebditch, Director of Communications and Policy for the Trust, along with other staff and leading hepatologists, about the disease, which caused over 12,000 deaths in the UK in 2022 alone.

Despite 90% of liver disease being preventable, three-quarters of patients are diagnosed at crisis point.

As well as encouraging early detection, the charity emphasises the importance of exercise and a healthy diet, which can help mitigate the risk of serious illness.

Following the reception, Mr Vara said:

“I was very pleased to speak with members of the charity and to hear about their work in raising awareness and supporting patients with liver disease.

“As the vast majority of cases are preventable, it is of the utmost importance that individuals, regardless of whether any symptoms are present, take the time to undergo a liver scan.

“Preventative measures are also very important, and we should all strive for a healthier diet, as well as find time for exercise.

“The Trust’s work is incredibly important, and we should all take the steps needed to bring awareness of liver disease to save lives.”

Photo: Ms Vanessa Hebditch with Shailesh Vara MP.