Ironically, MASH (Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis) may have an awareness problem, making this day the perfect time to clear things up. Global Fatty Liver Day, which was originally launched in June 2018, eventually changed to International NASH Day and, more recently, according to UPMC’s Dr. Jaideep Behari, was updated to MASH. This was to include non-alcohol-related liver disease.
If you have been confused by the name changes over the years, you’re not alone. Today, we are shining a much-needed light on MASH, which is a serious liver disease that can progress silently over the years, often without early-onset symptoms, potentially leading to liver damage, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and even the need for a liver transplant. Also, this can be prevented with attention paid to early recognition. Early recognition can help prevent progression and improve outcomes. Kimberly Martinez, of Arrowhead, Oklahoma, reflects on her desire to lose weight so that she could be a kidney transplant donor for her sister. She created her own healthy living plan, changing her eating habits and increasing her exercise to lose 70 pounds. Odd symptoms suddenly developed that had no attribution. After extensive testing, she was found to have a diseased liver. Eventually, she needed a transplanted liver.
Kimberly was amazed at how silently and symptomless the liver disease came about and now uses her personal healthcare experience to educate others about MASH awareness as well as advocate politically in Washington, DC.
Dr. Behari confirms that liver disease has had an awareness problem due to increased research surrounding the development of the disease. The most current medical term, according to Dr. Behari, is MASLD (Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease), a broad-spectrum term covering all liver conditions characterized by excess fat buildup in the liver.
In accordance with MASH Global Awareness Day, let’s use today to grow awareness. The goal isn’t simply to introduce a new acronym, rather to help the general public understand the risk factors of liver disease, recognize the importance of liver health, and have conversations with their healthcare providers so that liver health assessments become part of the annual physical check-up. Just as we routinely screen for heart disease, lung disease, and cancer, we need to make liver disease screening a standard part of regular healthcare visits instead of it being a rule-out diagnosis.
“MASH is one of the fastest-growing causes of advanced liver disease, yet too many people remain unaware they are at risk. On MASH Global Awareness Day, we call on communities, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to prioritize education, screening, and access to care. Every person deserves the opportunity for early diagnosis and effective treatment. Together, we can change the trajectory of liver disease and improve lives.” — Suzanna Masartis, CEO, Community Liver Alliance
About The Community Liver Alliance
The Community Liver Alliance is more than local; it’s a beacon of hope for communities nationwide. From our humble beginnings in Pittsburgh, we’ve grown into a powerful force for change, driven by a relentless commitment to supporting those affected by liver disease. Our mission is clear: to empower patients and providers, raise awareness, and champion education, advocacy, and research. With the support of an incredible network of patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and community leaders, we’re making the impossible possible, one liver at a time. Together, we can create hope as we strive for a world free from the burdens of liver disease.
