Liver Cancer
MASH
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is the name for liver inflammation and damage caused by a buildup of fat in the liver. Formerly referred to as NASH, it is a serious condition that can progress to a more severe form of fibrosis (liver scarring) called cirrhosis and eventually HCC.
Although a cure for MASH is not available at this time, researchers are exploring ways to prevent it. Because screening for MASH is not common and symptoms can take years to develop, learning what you can do to help prevent it is vital (see Table 1).
Fat in the liver is normal until it becomes more than five percent of the weight of your liver. That is dangerous to your health because it makes it harder for the liver to carry out its many functions.
Along with the risk factors shown in Table 1, simply being an older adult, being overweight or obese with more body fat around the abdomen, high blood pressure and leading a sedentary lifestyle are contributing factors.
Most people with MASH have no symptoms. If MASH is suspected, your doctor may recommend a liver biopsy to definitively diagnose it. And your doctor may investigate:
- Use of prescription and over-the-counter medicines that may increase fat in your liver.
- Amount of alcohol consumption.
- Diet.
- Physical activity.
- Your medical history and health conditions.
- Physical exam results.
- Blood tests that check liver enzymes, fibrosis and blood fats, such as cholesterol.
- Hepatitis B and C test results.
- Imaging tests that measure liver stiffness, which indicates fibrosis.
Understanding the risk factors that apply to you is the first step in taking control of your health. Use the resources in this guide to connect with support groups. It is easier to make major lifestyle changes with other people who have the same goal.
