THE fight against liver disease in Wales has been boosted by a £2.4 million investment from the Welsh Government.

Deaths from liver disease in Wales have more than doubled over the past 20 years as a result of the rise in obesity, alcohol misuse and viral hepatitis.

The cash will be used to create alcohol care teams in every health board in the country, as well as a Wales-wide awareness campaign.

Deputy health minister Vaughan Gething said: “The number of people suffering liver disease in Wales is increasing.

“We know some of it is unavoidable, but much is a result of how we live our lives - alcohol continues to be the biggest cause of liver disease in Wales.”

He also called on Welsh people to consider how their own lifestyles could impact their risk of liver disease.

Money will also be invested in early diagnosis of liver disease as well as new and more efficient treatments.