From Fatty Liver to MASH: A Silent Progression
Most people don’t realize how common fatty liver disease is. In fact, about 1 in 3 adults in the United States has excess fat in the liver, a condition called metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as NAFLD.
For many, fatty liver remains stable or even improves with lifestyle changes. But in a significant portion of patients, ongoing inflammation leads to a more serious condition called metabolic dysfunction associated steatohepatitis (MASH). This happens when fat in the liver starts causing inflammation and damage to liver cells, which over time can trigger scarring (fibrosis).
MASH is far more common than most people realize, it’s estimated to affect about 5–7% of the entire U.S. adult population, and the numbers are rising alongside obesity and diabetes. It often progresses silently for years without symptoms, meaning many people don’t know they have it until significant damage is already done.
⸻
Why MASH Matters
Left untreated, MASH can lead to advanced fibrosis, cirrhosis, liver failure, or even liver cancer. But the earlier it’s identified, the easier it is to slow and even reverse its course.
The foundation of MASH treatment is still rooted in lifestyle changes. Losing just 7–10% of body weight, maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and controlling blood sugar and cholesterol can dramatically improve liver inflammation and help prevent further damage.
⸻
GLP-1 Medications: A New FDA-Approved Treatment for MASH
In a major breakthrough, the FDA recently approved semaglutide for the treatment of MASH. GLP-1 medications not only support weight loss, which itself is one of the most effective ways to improve liver disease. They also directly reduce liver inflammation and slow or even reverse fibrosis.
This new approval means that many patients who were previously denied coverage for GLP-1 therapy under a “weight-loss” diagnosis may now qualify under a MASH diagnosis, and most commercial insurers are starting to recognize this indication.
⸻
How to Find Out if You Qualify
The key to unlocking this coverage is determining whether your liver shows signs of scarring. At our office, we offer a FibroScan, a quick, painless, non-invasive test that takes about 10 minutes. The only preparation required is avoiding food or drink for three hours before your appointment.
If your FibroScan shows moderate to advanced fibrosis (F2 or F3), most commercial insurance plans will cover GLP-1 therapy under the new MASH indication.
⸻
Open-Access FibroScan: Easy, Fast, and Collaborative
We understand that many patients are already working with their primary care providers or weight-management teams. That’s why we offer open-access FibroScan appointments, meaning you can schedule the scan directly with us without a specialist referral.
Once your scan is complete, we will send the results to your primary care physician within two weeks, ensuring that everyone involved in your care has the information they need to guide your next steps.
⸻
Beyond the Scan: Comprehensive Liver Care
For patients who prefer a more hands-on approach or who have more advanced disease, we also offer consultations to discuss liver health management in detail. During these visits, we can review your results, talk through lifestyle changes, consider additional testing if needed, and discuss whether medications like semaglutide or other emerging therapies are appropriate for you.
⸻
Take the Next Step
If you’ve been struggling with fatty liver, metabolic health issues, or insurance barriers to GLP-1 coverage, this new FDA approval could be a turning point. A simple FibroScan can clarify your liver health and open the door to new treatment options. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact our office today to schedule your FibroScan or a consultation about liver disease management, and take control of your liver health for the long term.
Rohan Modi, M.D.
