New research published in Nature Medicine shows that bariatric surgery can significantly reduce the risk of serious liver complications in patients with obesity and cirrhosis. This offers new hope for those struggling with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Key Findings from the Study
Researchers followed 168 patients with obesity and cirrhosis for 15 years:
- Patients who had bariatric surgery (gastric bypass or sleeve surgery) had a 72% lower risk of serious liver disease complications.
- After 15 years, only 20.9% of surgical patients developed severe liver complications compared to 46.4% of non-surgical patients.
- In early-stage (compensated) cirrhosis, surgery reduced the risk of progressing to late-stage (decompensated) cirrhosis by 80%.
- Surgical patients lost an average of 26.6% of their body weight, while non-surgical patients lost only 9.7%.
Why This Matters
Cirrhosis is caused by fat buildup in the liver, leading to inflammation and scarring. The disease progresses slowly, and many people don’t even realize they have it. Early intervention is key to preventing severe liver damage and the need for a liver transplant.
Bariatric Surgery vs. Other Treatments
✔ Weight loss surgery is currently the most effective option to slow liver disease progression.
✔ New GLP-1 obesity drugs may help, but their impact on liver disease is still being studied.
✔ Lifestyle changes like diet and exercise are crucial but may not be enough for some patients.
✔ Medications for MASH are in development, but they do not directly address fat accumulation or obesity.
Doctors and healthcare professionals should consider bariatric surgery as an option for patients with obesity and early-stage cirrhosis. Raising awareness about liver disease, early detection, and weight loss treatments can help prevent serious complications.
🔹 Encourage early screenings for liver disease.
🔹 Discuss weight loss options with at-risk patients.
🔹 Stay updated on new treatments for MASH and liver fibrosis.
Let’s work together to improve liver health and save lives!
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