Fatty Liver Disease (MASLD)

Fatty liver disease, now known as Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is a condition where excess fat builds up in the liver. It often develops silently, without pain or obvious symptoms, which is why many people are surprised when it’s first identified during routine blood tests or scans.

And just like many health conditions, it’s easiest to manage when caught early.

What exactly is MASLD?

MASLD occurs when fat accumulates in the liver in people who drink little or no alcohol. Over time, this fat can interfere with how the liver functions.

In its early stages, MASLD may cause no harm. But if inflammation develops and persists, it can progress to liver scarring (fibrosis), cirrhosis, or other serious complications.

The important thing to know? MASLD is often reversible, especially when addressed early.

Who is more likely to develop fatty liver disease?

MASLD is closely linked to metabolic health. You may be at higher risk if you have:

• Overweight or obesity
• Type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance
• High cholesterol or triglycerides
• High blood pressure
• Metabolic syndrome

It’s also increasingly common in people who feel generally well — which is why screening and evaluation matter, even in the absence of symptoms.

Symptoms: why it’s often missed

In many cases, MASLD causes no noticeable symptoms at all.

When symptoms do appear, they may be subtle and easy to dismiss, such as:

• Ongoing fatigue
• A general sense of feeling unwell
• Mild discomfort in the upper right abdomen

Advanced liver disease may cause more noticeable signs, but the goal is to identify and address MASLD long before that stage.

How MASLD is diagnosed

MASLD is often first suspected when routine blood tests show elevated liver enzymes. Your doctor may recommend:

• Blood tests to assess liver function
• Imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI
• Specialized scans to assess liver stiffness
• In select cases, a liver biopsy

Each step helps build a clearer picture of liver health and guides next steps.

How fatty liver disease is managed

There’s no single pill that “fixes” fatty liver disease, but that’s not a limitation. It’s empowering.

Management focuses on addressing the root causes:

Lifestyle changes that make a real difference

• Gradual, sustainable weight loss
• Regular physical activity
• A balanced, nutrient-rich diet
• Improving blood sugar and cholesterol control

Even modest changes can significantly reduce liver fat and inflammation.

Your care plan is always individualized — because liver health is deeply personal.

Why early action matters

Left unaddressed, MASLD can progress to liver inflammation, scarring, and in some cases, liver failure or cancer. It also increases the risk of heart disease.

But when identified early, outcomes are very positive.

Clarity creates control. Early care creates options.

When should you see a doctor?

You should consider an evaluation if:

• You’ve been told your liver enzymes are elevated
• You have metabolic risk factors
• You feel persistently fatigued without explanation
• You want reassurance about your liver health

Listening to your body early allows us to protect it for the long term.