When liver cells store too much fat, the liver becomes inflamed and damaged. This is commonly the result of years of alcohol abuse, but a growing number of people are being diagnosed with a similar issue without the heavy drinking.
The term for this condition is nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and it affects an estimated 80 to 100 million people. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, or NASH, is the most severe form of the disease. Once the condition reaches this stage, it can lead to scarring, fibrosis, liver cancer, cirrhosis, or liver failure.
NASH is linked to overweight or obesity, insulin resistance, high blood sugar, and high levels of fats in the blood. While some people experience fatigue or pain or swelling in the abdomen, most people do not display any symptoms, making NASH difficult to diagnose.
Advances in drug therapy are key to treating this disease at its early stages and preventing further liver damage. If you have a suspected diagnosis of NASH, you may be interested in an upcoming study.
Participants must meet the following qualifications:
Participants may receive compensation for time and travel. To see if you or someone you know may qualify, please contact us at 614-501-6164 or complete our online volunteer form.