Latest news with #MASLD
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Business Standard
5 hours ago
- Health
- Business Standard
Apollo, Siemens collaborate to advance liver healthcare with AI innovation
Apollo Hospitals and Siemens Healthineers on Wednesday announced a research collaboration founded on a shared ambition to advance innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) and imaging technologies, with the goal of improving lives. The research, spanning quantitative ultrasound imaging to AI-driven clinical solutions, aims to enhance liver disease management by improving patient care pathways and outcomes—from early detection and risk stratification to monitoring intervention and therapy response. The partnership combines technical and clinical expertise to develop innovative healthcare solutions for the growing burden of liver diseases in India, with a focus on early diagnosis, accurate detection, and precise monitoring to improve patient outcomes. As per Government of India guidelines, Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), referred to as NAFLD in the report, is a growing cause of liver disease in India. Its prevalence ranges from 9 per cent to 32 per cent and is higher among individuals who are overweight, obese, or have diabetes. According to NFHS-4 (2015–2016), 18–20 per cent of adults are overweight or obese and 3–8 per cent have abnormal blood sugar levels. MASLD significantly increases cardiovascular risk, with heart disease being the leading cause of death. 'At Apollo, we believe that the future of healthcare lies at the intersection of clinical excellence and cutting-edge technology anchored in patient centricity. Our collaboration with Siemens Healthineers is a transformative step in using AI to redefine non-invasive diagnostics for liver disease. Due to diagnostic challenges and the evolving understanding of the disease, the true prevalence of MASLD may be underestimated. This poses a significant public health challenge, requiring increased awareness, early detection, and effective management strategies,' said Sangita Reddy, joint managing director, Apollo Hospitals. 'AI-driven disease progression models will play a pivotal role in the early detection of fibrosis, allowing timely interventions, cost-effective screening, and improved patient outcomes. These models will also facilitate precision population health strategies and clinical decision support across care settings. This partnership reflects Apollo's pioneering vision to embed intelligent systems across the clinical spectrum that enable faster, more accurate diagnoses and proactive patient management,' she added. 'Liver disease is a growing health concern in India. It's crucial to prioritise early diagnosis and prevention through advanced diagnostic tools, lifestyle changes, and increased awareness to reverse this trend. We believe that advanced technologies will aid timely and precise diagnosis, leading to better disease management and improved quality of life for patients. Our joint effort will help address the unmet needs in liver disease diagnosis and treatment, and we look forward to a fruitful partnership,' said Hariharan Subramanian, managing director, Siemens Healthcare. Following the 2024 memorandum of understanding, the Master Research Agreement (MRA) was formalised in March 2025, establishing a foundation for collaborative research in diagnostic and interventional ultrasound imaging. The signing ceremony for the MRA addendum was held on July 23, 2025, in Hyderabad, marking a significant milestone in this partnership.
Indian Express
7 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
Gastroenterologist shares why he avoids these three foods for liver health: ‘The last one is a surprise for most people'
After sharing the herbs he includes in his diet and the snacks he eats for energy, Harvard-trained gastroenterologist Dr Saurabh Sethi recently revealed the three most harmful foods he avoids to protect his liver health. '3 foods I avoid as a liver specialist to protect my liver. The last one is a surprise for most people,' he said in an Instagram reel. He listed the following foods. Fructose-heavy foods – Fructose is commonly found in sugary drinks and processed snacks and is handled almost entirely by the liver. This can lead to the accumulation of fat over time, increasing the risk of fatty liver disease. Industrial seed oils – Like soybean, corn and sunflower. These are high in Omega-6 fats. When consumed in excess, they can fuel inflammation and oxidative stress, which are both harmful to the liver. Fruit juices – Even 100 per cent natural juices pack a high fructose load and no fibre, said Dr Sethi, adding that it causes blood sugar spikes which can drive fat storage in the liver. Taking a cue from his revelation, we consulted a nutritionist to gain a deeper understanding. Dt. Deepali Sharma, a clinical nutritionist at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, affirmed that excessive intake of fructose impacts liver health. 'While fructose is naturally present in fruits, vegetables, and honey, when consumed in moderation and its natural form, it can be part of a balanced diet and does not harm the body. However, when fructose is consumed in excessive amounts, especially in the form of fructose syrups like corn syrup, malt syrup, or through sugary drinks and carbonated beverages, it can negatively impact your liver,' said Sharma. The liver converts fructose into fat, and excessive intake can lead to fat accumulation in the liver, a condition known as Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), now referred to as MASLD (Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease). 'Over time, this fat buildup can cause inflammation and eventually liver damage. Therefore, it's essential to limit the consumption of fructose, sucrose, simple carbohydrates, and malt-based sugar products. Overconsumption of such sugary products contributes to liver issues and overall metabolic problems,' Sharma explained. Use of commercial seed oils, such as corn oil, sunflower oil, soybean oil, and canola oil, can also 'adversely affect liver health, especially when they are reused, overheated, or used for deep frying repeatedly', said Sharma. 'This repeated heating causes the oil to break down and release harmful compounds. Sunflower and soybean oils are particularly problematic in this regard,' said Sharma. These oils, when consumed in excess, can promote inflammation and contribute to various chronic health conditions, including liver disorders. 'To protect your liver, it's best to either limit the use of such oils or switch to healthier cooking alternatives. Avoid reheating oils and deep frying with them. Any excessive oil consumption can lead to inflammation, fat accumulation, and eventually fatty liver,' said Sharma. Sharma also noted that long-term or high-dose consumption of fish oil has been linked to fatty liver disease, which is something to keep in mind, even though fish oil is often considered healthy in moderation. Agreeing with Dr Sethi, Sharma said that even fresh or cold-pressed juices are essentially simple sugars and provide empty calories. 'They lack fibre, which is crucial for digestion, gut health, lipid profile regulation, and fat metabolism. Without fibre, fruit juice becomes just another sugary drink that can lead to fatty liver and inflammation over time. So, even if the juice is made fresh at home, it is not ideal for liver health. Avoid fruit juices and instead opt for whole fruits, which provide essential fibre along with natural sugars,' Sharma said. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Medscape
16-07-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Sesame Oil Boosts Glycemic Control in Women With MASLD
TOPLINE: In women with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), supplementing a calorie-restricted diet with unheated sesame oil, such as that used on salads or cooked meals, significantly improved biomarkers of glycemic control and insulin resistance. METHODOLOGY: Sesame oil contains compounds that attenuate inflammation by suppressing proinflammatory cytokines, potentially improving glucose and lipid metabolism; however, studies on its role in MASLD are limited. Researchers in Iran conducted a clinical trial to investigate whether sesame oil supplementation influenced glycemic, metabolic, and stress biomarkers in women with MASLD (aged 20-50 years; BMI, 25-40) who regularly consumed sunflower oil. After a 2-week run-in period on their usual diet, patients were randomly assigned to consume 30 g/d of either sesame oil or sunflower oil in unheated form for 12 weeks, alongside a weight-loss diet with a calorie deficit of 500 kcal/d. Blood markers for glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and oxidative stress were measured at baseline and at 12 weeks. TAKEAWAY: Of 60 patients enrolled, 53 completed the study, 27 in the sesame oil group (mean age, 38.89 years) and 26 in the sunflower oil group (mean age, 39.35 years). The sesame oil group experienced reductions in fasting blood glucose of 18.2 mg/dL, fasting serum insulin of 3.2 μIU/mL, and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance of 1.4 units; these reductions were significantly greater than in the sunflower oil group (P < .001 for all). Markers of pancreatic beta cell function and glucose regulation improved significantly in patients in the sesame oil group; however, markers of inflammation and oxidative stress did not differ between the two groups. Both groups achieved significant weight loss, with no differences between them. IN PRACTICE: 'While both groups achieved significant weight loss, the superior glycemic improvements in the [sesame oil] group indicate effects beyond calorie restriction,' the authors of the study wrote. SOURCE: This study was led by Masoumeh Atefi, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences in Shahroud, Iran. It was published online in BMC Nutrition. LIMITATIONS: The study did not measure serum vitamin E levels, red blood cell fatty acid content, or serum A1c levels. Self-reported dietary intake might have introduced bias. Enrollment was restricted to women aged 20-50 years with a specified BMI, limiting generalizability. DISCLOSURES: The study received a grant from Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. The authors reported having no competing interests. This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.
Time of India
12-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Experts: 4 out of 10 Indians hit by fatty liver, teetotallers also at risk
Bhubaneswar: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), or fatty liver disease, is fast emerging as a major global health challenge, experts said at the Metabolic Horizon-2025 conference organised here on Saturday. They pointed out that four out of ten people in India are now affected by this condition. Many people still believe that only those who consume alcohol are at risk of developing fatty liver disease. However, experts warned that even teetotallers can suffer from fatty liver disease. "Fat gets deposited in the liver due to certain metabolic conditions, including diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, negligible physical activity, and some diseases and drugs. Previously, when we found fat in the liver, we did not worry much. But once we discovered that MASLD is a common cause of cirrhosis, we began taking it seriously," said Dr Abhay Sahoo, an endocrinologist. Sahoo stated that initially, fat accumulates slowly in the liver, a condition known as hepatic steatosis. "After about five years, inflammation begins, and the liver becomes swollen. In the next stage, it progresses to fibrosis, which can eventually lead to cirrhosis. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Upto 15% Discount for Salaried Individuals ICICI Pru Life Insurance Plan Get Quote Undo We can reverse fatty liver in its early stage, but once fibrosis sets in, there is little chance of reversing the damage," he added. Sahoo said that people with fatty liver disease are usually asymptomatic. "They often do not experience any symptoms until the condition becomes severe. Some people may feel pain or discomfort on the right side of the abdomen. We often detect MASLD incidentally during an ultrasound or other tests," he said. Dr Satyajit Tripathy, a diabetologist, added that liver function tests (LFT), ultrasound scans, and even a fibroscan can help detect MASLD and assess liver elasticity. "This advanced test can detect fibrosis in the liver. A liver biopsy is another method to diagnose the disease," Tripathy said. He added that untreated MASLD can lead to more serious complications. "Exercises such as walking and yoga, along with dietary control and lifestyle changes, can help reverse this metabolic disorder if caught early. We need to maintain a healthy work-life balance and reduce fat accumulation, especially around the belly. A balanced diet is key to reducing liver fat. Even regular walking combined with a good diet can lower the risk of MASLD. Following a proper circadian rhythm is also important for a healthy lifestyle," said Tripathy.
Medscape
09-07-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Does Metabolic Dysfunction Affect Liver Fibrosis in Hep B?
TOPLINE: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) was prevalent in more than 40% of patients with chronic hepatitis B and was independently associated with advanced fibrosis. METHODOLOGY: This cross-sectional study was conducted at 19 specialised hepatology centres across five European countries to assess the prevalence and risk factors for MASLD and fibrosis. This study included 1709 consecutive patients with chronic hepatitis B (median age, 53 years; 60.7% men; 57.3% White), defined as the persistence of hepatitis B surface antigen for at least 6 months. MASLD was diagnosed using ultrasound, histology, and/or transient elastography, with a controlled attenuation parameter score ≥ 275 dB/m with at least one metabolic risk factor. In patients with chronic hepatitis B and MASLD, advanced fibrosis was defined as liver stiffness measurement values ≥ 8 kPa. TAKEAWAY: The prevalence of MASLD in patients with chronic hepatitis B was 42.3% and that of advanced fibrosis was 18%. Advanced fibrosis was more common in those with MASLD than in those without MASLD (25.4% vs 13.7%). In the multivariate analysis, BMI and type 2 diabetes were independently associated with MASLD in patients with chronic hepatitis B (odds ratio [OR], 1.27; P < .001 and OR, 2.60; P = .03, respectively). Factors associated with advanced fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B included MASLD (OR, 2.78; 95% CI, 1.50-5.05), BMI (OR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.02-1.15), insulin treatment (OR, 13.88; 95% CI, 2.95-65.28), and long-term antiviral treatment (OR, 4.86; 95% CI, 2.40-9.85). MASLD was more common in patients who were on antiviral treatment than in those who were untreated (49.2% vs 44.2%; P = .046). Screening practices for MASLD varied, with 68.4% of centres screened all patients with chronic hepatitis B and 21.1% screened only those with metabolic syndrome and/or steatosis on ultrasound and abnormal liver function tests. IN PRACTICE: "The results from our study might genuinely mirror the increase in MASLD cases in Europe that is also reflected in patients with CHB [chronic hepatitis B]," the authors wrote. SOURCE: This study was led by Maria Kalafateli and Roberta Forlano, Imperial College London, London, England. It was published online on July 01, 2025, in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology. LIMITATIONS: This study was retrospective in nature with missing data from some participating centres. The use of liver stiffness measurement to define advanced fibrosis, despite its modest predictive performance, could have influenced the results. The short duration of longitudinal data collection limited the ability to observe long-term effects of MASLD on chronic hepatitis B outcomes. DISCLOSURES: The authors declared having no conflicts of interest. This study did not receive any specific funding, but the Division of Digestive Diseases at Imperial College London received financial support from the National Institute for Health and Care Research Imperial Biomedical Research Centre and one author was a recipient of a Medical Research Council Clinician Scientist award. This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.
