Latest news with #MASH
Time of India
an hour ago
- Health
- Time of India
Can fatty liver increase cancer risk? Know the signs and how to prevent it
Fatty liver disease—now known in medical terms as metabolic dysfunction‑associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)—is on the rise, especially among people who are overweight, diabetic, or have metabolic syndrome. While early stages may appear harmless or even symptomless, experts warn that if left untreated, fatty liver can progress to metabolic dysfunction‑associated steatohepatitis (MASH)—a more serious condition involving inflammation and liver damage. This progression can significantly increase the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of liver cancer according to a a report by MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas. Fortunately, early detection and lifestyle interventions can often reverse the condition before it becomes life-threatening. What is MASLD and how does it lead to cancer? MASLD refers to fat accumulation in the liver in individuals who consume little or no alcohol. When this condition progresses to MASH, inflammation and damage to liver cells occur. Over time, this can result in fibrosis (scarring) and eventually cirrhosis, both of which are known risk factors for liver cancer. Even in cases where cirrhosis hasn't yet developed, the presence of MASH significantly increases cancer risk due to chronic inflammation and cellular damage in the liver. How lifestyle affects your risk Your daily habits play a major role in whether fatty liver progresses to cancer. People with unhealthy diets, sedentary lifestyles, and poor sleep quality are more likely to develop MASLD. On the flip side, those who engage in regular physical activity, maintain a healthy weight, and follow a balanced diet are much less likely to develop advanced liver disease. Diets high in processed foods, red meat, and added sugars tend to worsen liver health, while plant-based foods and whole grains can help protect it. Who is at high risk? Certain individuals are more likely to develop fatty liver disease and face increased cancer risk, including those who: Are overweight or obese, especially with abdominal fat Have type 2 diabetes Suffer from high cholesterol or triglycerides Have high blood pressure Are diagnosed with metabolic syndrome Have a family history of liver disease Millions of people worldwide may have MASLD or MASH without knowing it, putting them at risk for complications, including liver cancer. Warning signs your liver may be affected Fatty liver disease is often called a "silent" condition because many people do not notice symptoms until the disease has advanced. However, some potential warning signs include: Chronic fatigue or weakness Discomfort or pain in the upper right side of the abdomen Elevated liver enzymes on blood tests Enlarged liver detectable by imaging Unexplained weight loss (in more advanced stages) Because symptoms often appear late, routine screening is important for high-risk individuals. How to reduce risk and protect your liver The good news is that fatty liver disease is often preventable—and even reversible in early stages. The following strategies can significantly reduce your risk: Maintain a healthy weight: Losing just 5–10% of body weight can have a major impact on liver health. Adopt a balanced diet: Emphasize vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. Prioritize quality sleep: Lack of sleep can worsen insulin resistance and weight gain. Avoid alcohol and tobacco: Both contribute to liver inflammation and damage. Manage blood sugar and cholesterol: Through diet, exercise, or medications as needed. Seek medical guidance: Ask your doctor about liver screening if you have risk factors. New treatments, including weight-loss medications, may also be helpful. Fatty liver disease is more than just fat in the liver—it's a growing health crisis with serious long-term consequences, including liver cancer. The progression from MASLD to MASH to liver cancer can occur quietly, but it can often be stopped or even reversed through timely intervention. With regular checkups, awareness of symptoms, and simple lifestyle changes, you can protect your liver and reduce your risk of life-threatening complications. If you're at risk, don't wait—speak with your doctor and take action today.
Yahoo
10 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Madrigal (MDGL) Secures $500M to Fuel MASH Pipeline Expansion
Madrigal Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:MDGL) is one of the best biotech stocks to buy according to billionaire Steve Cohen. On July 22, MDGL announced a $500 million senior secured credit facility with Blue Owl Capital Inc. (NYSE:OWL), including a $350 million initial term loan and a $150 million delayed draw option through 2027. A doctor wearing a lab coat in a research laboratory, holding up a flask of a potential biotechnology therapeutic solution. The non-dilutive funding will refinance $115 million in existing debt and support strategic growth, with potential for an additional $250 million. Madrigal maintains a strong current ratio of 5.91, signaling solid liquidity. The capital will primarily advance Madrigal's pipeline for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), led by its FDA-approved drug Rezdiffra—the first treatment for MASH with moderate to advanced fibrosis. A Phase 3 trial is underway to evaluate Rezdiffra for compensated MASH cirrhosis. With strong launch momentum and a patent expected to extend protection through 2044, Madrigal is positioned to lead in MASH therapeutics. Madrigal Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:MDGL) is a biotech company that develops and commercializes novel therapies for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), also known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). While we acknowledge the potential of MDGL as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: and Goldman Sachs REIT Stocks: Top 12 Stock Picks. Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
Yahoo
11 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Madrigal (MDGL) Secures $500M to Fuel MASH Pipeline Expansion
Madrigal Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:MDGL) is one of the best biotech stocks to buy according to billionaire Steve Cohen. On July 22, MDGL announced a $500 million senior secured credit facility with Blue Owl Capital Inc. (NYSE:OWL), including a $350 million initial term loan and a $150 million delayed draw option through 2027. A doctor wearing a lab coat in a research laboratory, holding up a flask of a potential biotechnology therapeutic solution. The non-dilutive funding will refinance $115 million in existing debt and support strategic growth, with potential for an additional $250 million. Madrigal maintains a strong current ratio of 5.91, signaling solid liquidity. The capital will primarily advance Madrigal's pipeline for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), led by its FDA-approved drug Rezdiffra—the first treatment for MASH with moderate to advanced fibrosis. A Phase 3 trial is underway to evaluate Rezdiffra for compensated MASH cirrhosis. With strong launch momentum and a patent expected to extend protection through 2044, Madrigal is positioned to lead in MASH therapeutics. Madrigal Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:MDGL) is a biotech company that develops and commercializes novel therapies for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), also known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). While we acknowledge the potential of MDGL as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: and Goldman Sachs REIT Stocks: Top 12 Stock Picks. Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Globe and Mail
16 hours ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Viking Therapeutics Posts Wider Q2 Loss
Key Points - Loss per share was $(0.58), falling short of analyst expectations by $(0.13), or 29.1% (GAAP, Q2 2025). - Research and development expenses rose to $60.2 million in Q2 2025, up from $23.8 million in the same period of 2024, as clinical activity scaled up. - Cash and short-term investments totaled $808 million as of Q2 2025, supporting ongoing late-stage trials. These 10 stocks could mint the next wave of millionaires › Viking Therapeutics (NASDAQ:VKTX), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on treatments for obesity and metabolic diseases, released results for its second quarter on July 23, 2025. The key takeaway from the update was a higher-than-expected net loss (GAAP) for Q2 2025, driven by a sharp increase in research and development spending to support pipeline progress, particularly in later-stage obesity trials. The company reported a net loss per share of $(0.58) (GAAP), wider than the consensus GAAP estimate of $(0.45). There was no revenue reported or expected, in line with its clinical-stage status. Despite the larger operating loss and elevated cash burn, the company finished the quarter with significant liquidity, allowing it to continue funding large clinical programs. Overall, the period highlighted both progress and risks tied to advancing its lead drug candidate against strong competition. Source: Analyst estimates for the quarter provided by FactSet. Business Overview and Focus Areas Viking Therapeutics develops therapies for diseases tied to metabolism, with a pipeline that includes treatments for obesity, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (a type of fatty liver disease often called NASH or MASH), and rare genetic disorders. Its business model centers on drug discovery and clinical development, aiming to secure approvals from regulators like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for products that meet areas of high unmet need. Recently, the company's main focus has been its obesity program, highlighted by its lead product VK2735, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonist. It is developing both injectable and oral forms of this obesity treatment, advancing through late-stage trials. Other priorities include preparing for potential commercial launches and managing finances effectively to sustain R&D activity. Success in large, complex clinical trials and eventual regulatory approvals are the most important factors for its future. Quarter Highlights: Pipeline Progress and Financial Performance During the quarter, the company expanded clinical activities for VK2735, with one trial enrolling about 4,500 patients with obesity and another with around 1,100 patients who have both obesity and type 2 diabetes. These are randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials designed to measure weight loss after 78 weeks. The company completed enrollment for its Phase 2 oral VK2735 trial (VENTURE-Oral), with about 280 patients, in March 2025, and management expects top-line results in the second half of 2025. Previous data had shown promising effects for VK2735. Patients taking the injectable form achieved up to 14.7% weight loss after just 13 weeks in a Phase 2 study of VK2735 for obesity, as reported in 2024. For the oral formulation, prior short-term studies showed up to 8.2% weight loss in 28 days. These results place the company in direct competition with high-profile existing treatments for obesity, including Novo Nordisk's Semaglutide, and Eli Lilly's Tirzepatide, which are established standards in the field. Research and development expenses rose to $60.2 million in Q2 2025, up from $23.8 million in the same period of 2024, as costs increased from scaling up trial activity. These included higher spending on patient studies, drug manufacturing, and compensation. General and administrative costs also increased, mainly from higher employee compensation and stock-based pay, though this was partly balanced by lower legal and patent expenses. Ongoing investment in the pipeline drives these higher costs, but puts pressure on cash reserves and raises the risk of future fundraising. There were no revenues in the period, in line with the company's pre-commercial status. All operations remain funded by prior equity offerings and investment income. Ending liquidity was $808 million in cash and short-term investments as of June 30, 2025, down from $852 million on March 31, 2025. The company maintains this cash position to fund ongoing clinical work, especially as trial size and complexity grow. No new partnerships, licensing agreements, or direct commercialization steps were disclosed during the period. Looking Forward: Outlook and Upcoming Catalysts Management did not provide forward financial guidance for the remainder of fiscal 2025 or future quarters. It reaffirmed its focus on delivering key clinical readouts, especially top-line data from the VENTURE-Oral trial for its oral obesity drug in the second half of the year. The company also anticipates submitting an investigational new drug (IND) application for its DACRA program (a dual amylin and calcitonin receptor agonist for obesity) in the final quarter of the year. No new product revenues are expected until clinical milestones are achieved and regulatory approvals are secured. As the company grows its clinical footprint, future quarters will remain defined by the pace of patient enrollment, speed of key trial readouts, and any changes in spending or capital needs. Investors should watch for trial updates, changes in cash burn, and any partnering activity that might ease dilution risks or accelerate readiness for future product launches. VKTX does not currently pay a dividend. Revenue and net income presented using U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) unless otherwise noted. Where to invest $1,000 right now When our analyst team has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, Stock Advisor's total average return is 1,034%* — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 180% for the S&P 500. They just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy right now, available when you join Stock Advisor. See the stocks » *Stock Advisor returns as of July 21, 2025
The Hill
3 days ago
- Automotive
- The Hill
Restoring your right to fix your car
Freedom means owning what you buy, whether it's a Jeep Wrangler for your family or a rugged Jeep AEV J8 Milspec built for our troops. But there's a problem. In today's landscape, automakers are locking you out of fixing your own vehicles. They hoard the tools, software and know-how needed for repairs, in effort to establish a monopoly over auto repair. That's not just un-American — it's a threat to our liberty and security. Take this story from an active-duty logistics officer, knee-deep in South Korean mud, stunned to hear her Marine mechanic couldn't fix a broken generator. Why? 'Because of the warranty, ma'am.' A civilian corporate policy paralyzing our military? That's a SNAFU we cannot tolerate. Imagine MASH's Radar O'Reilly telling Colonel Potter his World War II Willys Jeep is down because the manufacturer says so. Absurd! Thankfully, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth gets it. He's demanding right-to-repair rules for all Army contracts, new and old, so our troops can keep equipment running in war zones without waiting on a corporate help desk. This saves taxpayer dollars, boosts readiness and cuts bureaucratic nonsense. And what's good for our military is good for every American. In Congress, I'm backing the bipartisan REPAIR Act. This bill forces automakers to share the tools, data and information needed for you, your local mechanic or independent shops to fix your car. No more gatekeeping. No more monopolies. Right now, 63 percent of repair shops struggle with routine fixes because automakers withhold data. Half send cars to dealerships, jacking up costs by $3.1 billion annually. Independent shops, employing nearly 5 million Americans and generating $500 billion a year, are the backbone of our communities. They're often the only option for families miles from a dealership. The National Federation of Independent Business says 90 percent of its members support right-to-repair. It's a no-brainer. With car prices soaring and the average vehicle now 12.6 years old, families rely on trusted local garages charging 36 percent less than dealerships. These shops earn loyalty through honesty, skill and fair prices. But modern cars aren't your granddad's Chevy. They're packed with computer systems — 1,000 to 3,000 chips in even basic models. Hybrids and EVs? Even more. Without access to diagnostic codes and repair manuals, mechanics are blindfolded. Automakers claim they're protecting proprietary tech and warranties. Fine. The REPAIR Act ensures transparency without compromising cybersecurity, safety or intellectual property. It's about your right to fix what you own — not handing over trade secrets. This bill unites Republicans and Democrats because it's common sense. It's about freedom, competition and fairness. Congress needs to quit stalling and pass the REPAIR Act. Let's put Americans back in the driver's seat — literally. Rep. Warren Davidson (R-Ohio) represents Ohio's 8th congressional District in the United States House of Representatives. He spent 15 years starting, acquiring and growing manufacturing companies before replacing former Speaker John Boehner in the United States House.
