MASEF Score Promising for Early Detection of At-Risk MASH, Non-Invasive Alternative to VCTE
Early identification of patients with a NAFLD activity score ≥4 and significant fibrosis (≥F2) is crucial, as these individuals are at increased risk for disease progression and may benefit from timely interventions. To improve diagnosis, researchers developed the MASEF score, a metabolomics-based tool that incorporates 12 lipids, BMI, AST, and ALT levels, to identify patients with at-risk metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH).
Top Therapies for Reducing Hepatic Fat in MASH Identified in Meta-Analysis
Metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is a major contributor to liver disease, and reducing hepatic fat is critical for improving patient outcomes. A systematic review and network meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of various pharmacological treatments in reducing liver fat in MASH patients, as measured by MRI proton-density-fat fraction (MRI-PDFF).
Rising Obesity and Diabetes Drive Global Surge in NAFLD, Highlighting Need for Better Treatments
As obesity and type 2 diabetes continue to rise globally, the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is also increasing. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a more severe form of NAFLD, can progress to cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and death. NAFLD is linked to other health issues such as chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, and sleep apnea, significantly impacting health-related quality of life and creating a substantial economic burden.
Global Survey of Stigma Among Physicians and Patients With NAFLD
A cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the stigma experienced by patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and healthcare providers. Surveys were completed by 1,976 patients with NAFLD across 23 countries and 825 healthcare providers from 25 countries. Nearly half (48%) of patients had disclosed their condition to family or friends, with “fatty liver” being the most common term used (88%), while “metabolic disease” or “MAFLD” were rarely used.
Liver Stiffness and Risk of Liver-related Events
In a large prospective study, the significance of changes in liver stiffness measurement (LSM) via vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE) was examined in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The study evaluated progression to and regression from compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD) as indicated by LSM values and their association with liver-related events (LREs), such as liver-related death, liver transplant, hepatocellular carcinoma, and hepatic decompensation.
NAFLD: A “Growing” Problem?
Children today face a unique nutritional challenge: while food is abundant, an increasing number are overweight or obese, leading to a rise in related health conditions like hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD has emerged as one of the most prevalent chronic liver diseases in children. With the rise in childhood obesity, pediatric NAFLD is rapidly becoming a significant public health concern. Early research identified NASH in children in the 1980s, and it is now widely recognized as a critical condition tied to insulin resistance and obesity, with boys more often affected than girls.
Rising Global Obesity Fuels Surge in NAFLD, Driving Mortality and Healthcare Costs
Chronic liver disease (CLD) is a major contributor to global mortality and morbidity, with a 46% increase in CLD-related deaths between 1980 and 2010, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a significant driver of CLD mortality, closely linked to rising global rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. As obesity rates climb worldwide, so does the prevalence of NAFLD, currently affecting an estimated 25% of the global population.
