Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a condition where fat accumulates in the liver, mainly due to issues with metabolism. It was previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), but the name has changed to emphasize its link to metabolic health rather than alcohol consumption. MASLD is becoming more common because of the increasing rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. These conditions disrupt how the body processes fats and sugars, leading to fat buildup in the liver.
How Do People Develop MASLD?
People develop MASLD when excess fat accumulates in the liver. This happens due to metabolic conditions that affect the body’s ability to regulate fats and sugars properly. For instance, being overweight or obese increases the amount of fat that circulates in the bloodstream, which can then deposit in the liver. Insulin resistance, a common issue in people with type 2 diabetes, also contributes to fat accumulation. When cells become resistant to insulin, the body struggles to regulate blood sugar and fat levels, leading to more fat storage in the liver.
Other factors like genetics, poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle can also increase the risk of developing MASLD. Even if someone does not have diabetes or is not obese, they can still get MASLD if they have high cholesterol or high blood pressure, which are also linked to metabolic dysfunction. The condition often develops silently, with no symptoms in its early stages, making it hard to detect without medical tests.
Can MASLD Be Treated?
Yes, MASLD can be treated, especially if caught early. Lifestyle changes are the most effective way to manage the condition. These include losing weight, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and increasing physical activity. Weight loss can significantly reduce the amount of fat in the liver, improving liver function and slowing disease progression.
In addition to lifestyle changes, some medications may help treat MASLD, particularly for managing associated conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol. These medications can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood lipid levels, which may reduce fat buildup in the liver. However, there is no specific drug approved solely for treating MASLD at this time.
The Role of Screening and Early Diagnosis
Early diagnosis of MASLD is crucial because it can prevent the condition from progressing to a more severe form known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), where liver inflammation and scarring occur. Screening helps identify people at risk before significant liver damage develops. Non-invasive tests, like Fibronostics’ LIVERFASt, can be used to detect MASLD early. LIVERFASt is a blood-based test that measures markers associated with liver health, such as fat accumulation and inflammation. It provides valuable insights into the liver’s condition, helping healthcare providers make informed decisions about treatment.
Screening is particularly important for people with metabolic risk factors like obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Catching MASLD early allows for lifestyle interventions that can reverse the disease or slow its progression. Fibronostics’ LIVERFASt can reduce the need for more invasive diagnostic procedures like liver biopsies, making early detection easier and more accessible.
