Blog
Liver Health Awareness: Is Your Liver at Risk?
Do you know your liver health?
Cameron Rolph
Physician Reviewed
Oct 9, 2025
October marks National Liver Awareness Month, a time to spotlight the liver's vital role in our health and to raise awareness about liver diseases, many of which progress silently. The liver performs over 500 essential functions, including detoxifying harmful substances, aiding in digestion, and storing nutrients. Despite its significance, liver disease often progresses without noticeable symptoms, making awareness and early detection crucial.
Understanding Liver Disease and Its Risks
Liver disease encompasses a range of conditions, from nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to cirrhosis and liver cancer. A particularly concerning form is metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as NAFLD. MASLD affects approximately 25% to 38% of the global adult population, with higher prevalence rates among individuals who are obese, diabetic, or have metabolic syndrome. In the United States alone, an estimated 80 to 100 million people are affected by MASLD, making it the most common chronic liver disease in the country.
The progression of MASLD can lead to more severe conditions such as steatohepatitis (MASH), cirrhosis, and even liver cancer. Alarmingly, a significant number of individuals with MASLD remain undiagnosed. A study published in The Lancet Regional Health Europe revealed that fewer than 18% of people with MASH are aware of their condition, highlighting a substantial gap in early detection and intervention.
Identifying Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the risk of developing liver disease:
Obesity and Metabolic Conditions: Excess weight, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome are strongly associated with the development of MASLD and its progression to more severe liver conditions.
Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake is a well-known cause of liver damage, leading to conditions such as alcoholic fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
Viral Infections: Chronic infections with hepatitis B or C viruses can lead to liver inflammation, cirrhosis, and an increased risk of liver cancer.
Diet and Lifestyle: Diets high in saturated fats, sugars, and processed foods can contribute to liver fat accumulation and inflammation. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet are essential for maintaining liver health.
The Importance of Early Detection
Liver disease is often called a “silent” condition because it can progress for years without noticeable symptoms, even as damage accumulates. This makes early detection critical, particularly for individuals with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, or a family history of liver disease. Recognizing potential issues early allows for timely intervention, which can prevent progression to more severe conditions like cirrhosis or liver cancer.
Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Modifications
Adopting a healthy lifestyle is the most effective strategy to prevent and manage liver disease:
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Achieving and sustaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of developing MASLD and its complications.
Limit Alcohol Intake: Reducing alcohol consumption can prevent alcohol-related liver damage and associated diseases.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports liver health. Limiting intake of red and processed meats, as well as foods high in added sugars and unhealthy fats, can reduce liver disease risk.
Stay Active: Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and improves overall metabolic health.
Get Vaccinated: Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B, providing protection against these viral infections.
Covenant Metabolic Specialists: Your Partner in Liver Health
At Covenant Metabolic Specialists, we are dedicated to advancing the treatment and care of metabolic diseases, including fatty liver disease, diabetes, and obesity. Our approach focuses on addressing the root causes of chronic illness through advanced diagnostics, individualized plans, and state-of-the-art therapies.
We offer no-cost liver evaluations to help detect conditions like MASLD and MASH early, allowing for timely intervention and management.
Understanding your liver health is the first step toward better overall wellness. We encourage you to take our free Metabolic Health Quiz to assess your risk and learn more about how we can support your health journey.
Conclusion
As we observe National Liver Awareness Month, it's an opportune time to reflect on our liver health and take proactive steps to mitigate risks. Understanding the factors that contribute to liver disease and implementing preventive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing serious liver conditions. Early detection through regular screenings and awareness of one's health status are paramount. By prioritizing liver health, we can ensure this vital organ continues to function effectively, supporting our overall well-being.
