Scientists Share Liver Disease Reversal in New Trials
Dr. Arun Sanyal, who heads the VCU Stravitz-Sanyal Institute for Liver Disease and Metabolic Health, recently discussed new clinical trials involving around 800 participants.
In related health news, NFL Hall of Famer Dan Marino opened up about his recent diagnosis of metabolic dysfunction-related steatohepatitis, or MASH. He mentioned this revelation came after feeling unwell during a routine check-up a couple of years ago.
MASH is a significant liver condition marked by an accumulation of fat in the liver, alongside inflammation and cell damage, according to Rosario Ligresti, director of gastroenterology at Hackensack University Medical Center. Unlike issues like alcoholic liver disease or viral hepatitis, MASH often develops quietly, stemming from common health concerns like obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension.
Marino’s experience has drawn attention, but experts believe it highlights a broader, underreported health crisis.
As noted by Ligresti, MASH is often described as a “silent” illness because it typically shows few symptoms in its early stages and can take years to develop. By the time someone notices warning signs—like fatigue, yellowing of the skin, or easy bruising—the liver may have already sustained considerable damage.
This ongoing inflammation can lead to fibrosis and potentially progress to cirrhosis, a severe and irreversible scarring of the liver.
The Cleveland Clinic explains that MASH evolves from MASLD (metabolic dysfunction-related fatty liver disease), where fat is stored in the liver without significant inflammation. The transition to MASH increases risk and, alarmingly, is believed to affect about 1.5% to 6.5% of the global population, with rising rates paralleling those of obesity and diabetes.
It can impact individuals of all ages but is most frequently seen in middle-aged adults. While genetics might play a part, the primary culprits are processed foods, sugary beverages, and diets high in unhealthy fats.
Experts underscore the importance of early detection and lifestyle changes. Warning signs to watch for include:
- Pain in the upper right abdomen
- Extreme tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- Swelling in the abdomen
- Unexpected weight loss
- Yellowing of skin and eyes
Addressing risk factors like obesity or high cholesterol with healthcare providers is crucial. Ligresti emphasizes that changes in diet, exercise, and weight management can often halt or even reverse early liver damage.
Notably, this year the FDA approved a GLP-1 drug, already used for diabetes and weight loss, as a potential treatment for MASH. Research suggests it can decrease liver fat and improve inflammation while reducing scarring.
