Getting to Know Metabolic Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH) or Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis
It is a condition where excessive fat accumulates in the liver, causing inflammation and liver cell damage. It is commonly found in obesity, high blood lipids, type 2 diabetes, and others.
Treatment Approach: Lifestyle Modification
Studies have found that losing at least 5% of body weight can reduce liver fat, and losing 7-10% can reduce liver inflammation. Controlling diet and exercising to lower high blood lipid levels and reduce weight are very important. It is also essential to maintain discipline in continuous weight control.
Currently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of injectable weight loss medications under medical indications, as research supports their effectiveness in improving metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis. Besides the increasing metabolic dysfunction found in postmenopausal women, hormonal imbalance, aging, and obesity also contribute to this problem.
Disease prevention can start easily by measuring waist circumference and calculating body mass index (BMI) from weight and height. If the BMI is 23 or higher, it indicates overweight. It is recommended to consult a doctor to assess metabolic problems, which may be a hidden silent threat.
Article by: Dr. Thisara Weerasamai
Obstetrician-Gynecologist, Head of Women’s Health Center, and Head of V Women’s Wellness Center
