Hope for Early Detection & Treatment – Liver Cancer News

by Global Liver Institute | Jan 10, 2024 | Liver Cancers News

🎉Happy New Year! 🎉 We hope you had time to rest and refresh.

As we step into 2024, we’re excited to continue to bring the latest information and tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the liver cancers field.

Global Liver Institute releases second edition of the Global State of Liver Health report

Explore global perspectives on the factors and care that affect liver disease in our latest edition of The Global State of Liver Health report! Leading experts share insights into best practices and challenges, providing a comprehensive view of liver health worldwide. Discover where local experts advocate for change and the strategies that have proven successful.

Global State Of Liver Health Report Edition 2 2024

UCLA receives grant from NCI to improve early detection methods for cancer

The UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center received two grants from the National Cancer Institute to advance liquid biopsy technology that has the ability to detect early-onset cancer. If achieved, a liquid biopsy will serve as a non-invasive medical test that uses a small amount of blood, which medical professionals can use to view the genetic makeup of tumors. With the support of the $9.1 million grant, Jasmine Zhou and her team will advance current tests to detect early liver, colorectal, lung, and stomach cancers with the goal of decreasing mortality rates.

VA opens three new Vet Centers and six satellite locations

In December, the Department of Veteran Affairs issued a statement announcing three new Vet Centers and six satellite locations. The new locations will be constructed to increase local access to counseling services, including a variety of social and psychological services to eligible Veterans, service members, and their families. These services include no-cost professional counseling for issues like depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, and the psychological impact of military trauma. Vet Centers also assist in connecting Veterans with their VA health care or benefits. If you or a loved one are a veteran who is experiencing depression from a diagnosis from severe disease such as liver cancer, reach out to your local Vet Center.

Mayo Clinic Minute: Treating Liver Cancer

In a video released by the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Lionel Kankeu Fonkoua, an oncologist at the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, provides insights on prevention and treatment options. The most prevalent form of primary liver cancer, known as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), commonly arises in individuals with chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis. Dr. Fonkoua explains that symptoms may manifest as yellowing of the eyes and skin, stomach pain, and unexplained weight loss. Recent treatments for managing this disease include targeted therapy and immunotherapy. To reduce the risk of developing liver cancer, one can adopt a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, limit alcohol consumption, and receive the hepatitis B vaccine.

The Silent Threat: Liver Cancer and NAFLD in Diabetics

A middle-aged man diagnosed with NAFLD and diabetes three years ago opted for alternative therapies instead of conventional medical treatment. Unfortunately, his condition deteriorated, resulting in a stage four liver cancer diagnosis, emphasizing the critical importance of adhering to medical treatment and the potential risks of relying solely on alternative therapies, as highlighted by Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, also known as TheLiverDoc. The case underscores the link between NAFLD, diabetes, and liver cancer, emphasizing the need for preventive measures, including hepatitis B vaccination and regular monitoring for at-risk individuals.

Upcoming Events:

January 24, 2024: American Cancer Society, 2024 Virginia Cancer Action Day
February: Rare Liver Diseases Month, #RareAware Campaign
February 22, 2024: EASL Liver Cancer Summit 2024

For more information about the Liver Cancers Council or to learn more about joining, please visit https://globalliver.org/liver-cancers-council/ or email cancer@globalliver.org

New Year, New Opportunities – NASH News

by Global Liver Institute | Jan 9, 2024 | Fatty Liver Disease News

New Year, New Opportunities

🎉Happy New Year! 🎉 We hope you had time to rest and refresh.

As we step into 2024, we’re excited to continue to bring the latest information and tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the field of fatty liver disease. The beginning of the year signals a fresh start, filled with renewed energy and the promise of new opportunities.

2023 concluded on a high note for liver health, and we can’t wait to build on that momentum throughout the coming months. As we usher in January, let’s look at the exciting developments and initiatives awaiting us.

Global Fatty Liver Day – 6 months to go!! 🥳

Global Fatty Liver Day - 2024 Save The Date Banner

Formerly known as International NASH Day

Fatty liver disease often lurks undetected, impacting millions worldwide and serving as a significant risk factor for concurrent conditions. Left unchecked, it may progress to severe complications, including cirrhosis, liver cancer, and the need for a liver transplant.

Your involvement matters. The support from our partners is instrumental in the success of our campaign, and we invite you to stand with patients, advocate for early detection, and passionately champion the movement. By becoming an official partner, you’ll join a global network committed to making a positive impact.

Join us for Global Fatty Liver Day 2024 and visit our Partner Application page.

Veterans Health: Navigating Fatty Liver Disease from Risk Awareness to Diagnosis

A significant portion of U.S. Veterans, nearly a third, face the risk or are currently grappling with liver disease, with many cases going undiagnosed. Recognizing the importance of equitable access to information and support, GLI is dedicated to aiding veterans in navigating and understanding fatty liver disease, from early identification to diagnosis.

Empowering Primary Care: GLI and PRIME Inc. Collaborate on Fatty Liver Disease Resource

Global Liver Institute partnered with PRIME INC. to create a resource for primary care providers, focusing on early detection and intervention for fatty liver disease. The continuing education* resource addresses diagnostic delays and emphasizes the critical role of endocrinology and primary care teams. An accompanying video provides practical insights from expert faculty and GLI Patient Ambassadors to empower healthcare professionals in managing fatty liver disease within their clinical practice.

*PRIME® designates this activity for 0.5 contact hour.

Global Liver Institute Releases 2nd Edition of the Global State of Liver Health Report

Explore global perspectives on the factors and care that affect liver disease in our latest edition of The Global State of Liver Health report! Leading experts share insights into best practices and challenges, providing a comprehensive view of liver health worldwide. Discover where local experts advocate for change and the strategies that have proven successful.

Surfing the MASH Tsunami: Wrapping up 2023 – An Interview with Donna Cryer

Global Liver Institute Founder and CEO Donna Cryer joins Louise Campbell and Roger Green, on an episode of Surfing the MASH Tsunami, to discuss her personal challenges during the last part of 2023, the growing strength of GLI and the challenges facing GLI and the entire community in 2024.

The Silent Threat: Liver Cancer and NAFLD in Diabetics

A middle-aged man diagnosed with NAFLD and diabetes three years ago opted for alternative therapies instead of conventional medical treatment. Unfortunately, his condition deteriorated, resulting in a stage four liver cancer diagnosis, emphasizing the critical importance of adhering to medical treatment and the potential risks of relying solely on alternative therapies, as highlighted by Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, also known as TheLiverDoc. The case underscores the link between NAFLD, diabetes, and liver cancer, emphasizing the need for preventive measures, including hepatitis B vaccination and regular monitoring for at-risk individuals.

Donate Today

Building up to Rare Liver Diseases Month

by Global Liver Institute | Jan 8, 2024 | Pediatric & Rare Liver Diseases News

Rare Liver Diseases Month – #RareAware

Rare Liver Diseases Month is just around the corner!

Join us next month for our annual #RareAware campaign, focusing on the theme of Transitions in Care.

During the month:

Tune in to weekly episodes of GLI LIVE featuring patient and caregiver experiences.
Join our empowerment day on February 17, 2023 targeted towards pediatric patients to participate in a virtual educational seminar and have the opportunity to connect with others and share their experiences. Register here.
Be a part of the campaign and share graphics on social media using our toolkit.
Show your support and help raise awareness about rare liver diseases by checking out our merch!

Building the distinction between Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure and Acute Liver Failure

The American College of Gastroenterology has released new guidelines distinguishing between acute-on-chronic liver failure and acute liver failure, aiming to ensure tailored treatment plans for each. This guideline offers a comprehensive overview of these distinct conditions, especially pertinent as novel medical therapies emerge. For an in-depth insight into the guideline’s creation and breakdown, find information from this interview with Dr. Lafaine Grant, MD.

CRISPR Gene-Editing Therapies on the Horizon

In December, the FDA granted approval to gene-editing technology for treating sickle cell anemia – a landmark achievement in medical innovation. This development opens the door to potential advancements in various gene therapies awaiting future approvals. Progress has already been made in gene therapy for Crigler-Najjar syndrome, with demonstrated efficacy in patients. Looking ahead, Intellia Therapeutics is at the forefront of pioneering gene therapies for rare liver diseases, including transthyretin amyloidosis, currently in early clinical stages.

Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy Cases on the Rise

Recent findings indicate a surge in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy among mothers aged 35 and above. While cholestasis during pregnancy has historically impacted approximately 3 percent of the population, the current prevalence is notably higher. Screening for liver functions during pregnancy is now advised, particularly for those at risk of liver conditions. For individuals dealing with ICP, resources can be accessed through our website and our collaborative partners at ICP Care.

Global Liver Institute releases second edition of the Global State of Liver Health report

Explore global perspectives on the factors and care that affect liver disease in our latest edition of The Global State of Liver Health report! Leading experts share insights into best practices and challenges, providing a comprehensive view of liver health worldwide. Discover where local experts advocate for change and the strategies that have proven successful.

Upcoming Events

January 27, 2024 – Children’s Hospital of LA Liver Disease in Children: From London to LA Conference
February – Rare Liver Diseases Month, #RareAware Campaign
February 25 – 28, 2024 – Everylife Foundation Rare Disease Week on Capitol Hill
February 29, 2024 – Rare Disease Day at NIH

For more information about the Pediatric and Rare Liver Diseases Council or to learn more about joining, please visit our webpage or email pedsrare@globalliver.org.

Donate Today

Doctors and Experts around the World Call for Urgent Action to Prevent Liver Health Crisis

by Ethan Schneier | Dec 12, 2023 | Web Releases

Doctors and Experts around the World Call for Urgent Action to Prevent Liver Health Crisis

Global Liver Institute’s Second Edition “Global State of Liver Health” Report Reveals Promising Opportunities

(Washington, D.C., December 11, 2023) – Global Liver Institute (GLI), the premier patient-led liver health nonprofit operating globally, released the second edition of its “Global State of Liver Health” report, now including 22 countries covering every region of the world. Following the impetus of the Liver Health is Public Health initiative, international experts drew attention to pressing opportunities for their respective governments to prioritize and improve liver health.

Liver disease continues to pose a heavy burden for the world and its health systems:

Liver disease causes 2 million deaths per year around the globe.
An estimated 1.5 billion people in the world have chronic liver disease – an increase of 13% since the beginning of the millennium.
About 70% of liver cancer is preventable.
Even rare liver diseases appear to be rising in prevalence; in Germany, for instance, prevalence has risen by around 30% in less than five years.

“Our continued exploration of the scope and scale of the impact of liver diseases gives us both pause and hope. Powerful human intellect has developed many innovative solutions,” noted GLI CEO Donna R. Cryer, JD. “Rather than let these solutions go to waste, it is now time to direct political will towards putting them into practice and ensuring the ability to achieve liver health – and overall health – around the world.”

Strategies and technologies currently exist that can prevent liver disease or catch it early. However, putting these tools into practice can require financial investment, expert training, and often complex execution on a scale that necessitates government support. Several of the report’s expert advisors highlighted the policy opportunities and successes that might support liver health:

“We don’t have many tools currently to control tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption, and even the consumption of unhealthy diets in Vietnam,” shared Dr. Tung Pham, report advisor and lecturer /physician at Hanoi Medical University. “These are the second and third leading factors, so a tightening of standards, maybe raising taxes and implementing other promotional programs, will be essential.”

In contrast, a liberal treatment program that provided newly developed hepatitis C treatment to patients in Australia without many barriers has eliminated more than half of the viral disease throughout the country. As report advisor and leading hepatologist Dr. Simone Strasser noted in the report, several features brought about a successful program, including comprehensive training of primary care providers, minimal direct cost to patients, and local access to treatment.

National experts have identified the greatest threats to liver health in their communities. Now, those who care about liver health and its related conditions must urge their national leaders to prioritize and implement solutions.

The Liver Health is Public Health initiative is made possible thanks to the support of Sanofi and Salix Pharmaceuticals.

About Global Liver Institute

Global Liver Institute (GLI) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded in the belief that liver health must take its place on the global public health agenda commensurate with the prevalence and impact of liver illness. GLI promotes innovation, encourages collaboration, and supports the scaling of optimal approaches to help eradicate liver diseases. Operating globally, GLI is committed to solving the problems that matter to liver patients and equipping advocates to improve the lives of individuals and families impacted by liver disease. GLI holds Platinum Transparency with Candid/GuideStar, is a member of the National Health Council, and serves as a Healthy People 2030 Champion. Follow GLI on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube or visit www.globalliver.org.

Congress passes Continuing Resolution to extend federal funding into the new year, addresses some health care priorities

by Global Liver Institute | Dec 11, 2023 | Liver Health Policy Updates

Congress temporarily averted a government shutdown through the passage of a Continuing Resolution (CR) for funding the government into early 2024, specifically through February 2, 2024. For health care programs, this includes a provision to avert cuts in clinical lab services for Fiscal Year 2024. Join Global Liver Institute’s Continued Push for Congress to Advance Priority Bills and Support Agency Efforts.

The government averted a shutdown, but work continues to advance FY 2024 appropriations bills to keep the government funded throughout the Fiscal Year.

The Continuing Resolution keeps certain elements of the U.S. government funded through January 19, with federal health programs funded through February 2, 2024. Still, Congress will need to pass another Continuing Resolution or pass the Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations bills. GLI continues to support funding levels reflected in the Senate appropriations bills, providing modest increases to key healthcare programs and activities and directing funds for a NAFLD study. Please join us by reaching out to your legislators!

Funding challenges put modernization of the organ transplant system at risk.

As Congress debates funding for the government through Fiscal Year 2024, none of the proposals would provide funding to implement the recently passed Securing the U.S. Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network Act, signed into law by the President

in September. The administration has asked for $67 million from Congress to advance the contracts needed for modernization. The Senate provides only a modest increase in funding, providing $33 million, or half of the President’s funding request. GLI is working closely with Congress and the administration to ensure HRSA advances organ transplant modernization has the funding and tools to do so effectively.

GLI Advanced Advocacy Academy’s (A3) Graduates Speak at AASLD Conference.

GLI is proud to see so many Advanced Advocacy Advocacy (A3) graduates profiled to speak at the recent AASLD The Liver Meeting® in Boston. A3 graduate speakers included Karen Hoyt, Wendy Lo, Tony Villiotti, Lorrinda Gray Davis, Jess Schnur, and Terri Milton. They brought their patient voice to an audience of clinicians and innovators about the need for access to innovative health treatments.

AASLD The Liver Meeting® in Boston - Karen Hoyt

GLI applauds Congress for passing a one-year delay in clinical laboratory cuts!

During GLI’s Capitol Hill Day visits with liver patients as a part of ourA3 on October 2, 2023, liver health advocates strongly urged Congress to pass a permanent fix to prevent cuts in clinical lab reimbursement. While not a permanent fix, GLI is relieved Congress included a one-year delay in Medicare reimbursement cuts to clinical laboratories as part of its CR to keep the government funded past November 17. With the passage of the CR, Congress has successfully delayed implementation of cuts for the fifth year in a row and advocates will continue working to abolish these life-threatening cuts through passage of the Support the Saving Access to Laboratory Services Act.

Momentum Grows for Policymakers to Cover Obesity Treatments

A new study makes it undeniable that obesity is a chronic, treatable disease that should be covered by insurers. GLI is pleased to support the Obesity Care Advocacy Network statement referencing the New England Journal of Medicine’s publication of the full results from the SELECT study of semaglutide to prevent cardiovascular deaths, strokes, and heart attacks in people with obesity. Support for coverage of obesity treatments is broad across communities that prioritize health equity, including the Health Equity Coalition for Chronic Disease which is calling on the administration to advance coverage. GLI continues to strongly advocate for passage of the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act, sending a letter on November 14, 2023, to lawmakers making the case for passage.

GLI comments on HHS Office for Civil Rights proposed changes to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act impacting access to liver transplants for people with disabilities.

The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has proposed a rule to remove barriers to organ transplant for people with disabilities, based on recommendations from a 2019 study from the National Council on Disability. With GLI’s long history supporting organ transplant system reforms, GLI provided comments to the agency supporting its work and recommending that the final rule acknowledge not only the discrimination experienced by those seeking an organ transplant but also those seeking to be donors.

Read GLI's Letter

GLI Supports Reintroduction of the Medical Nutrition Therapy Act.

GLI is pleased to be among the 40 expert national organizations endorsing the Medical Nutrition Therapy Act, recently reintroduced in Congress (H.R. 6407, S. 3297). The bill will provide Medicare beneficiaries with greater access to registered dietitian nutritionists by expanding the availability of nutrition services under Medicare Part B.

Biliary Atresia Patient Registry Launched by BARE Inc!

by Global Liver Institute | Dec 7, 2023 | Pediatric & Rare Liver Diseases News

BARE Inc. Launches First Biliary Atresia Patient Registry

BARE Inc, a member of our council, has just released the first US-based patient registry for biliary atresia (BA). This registry focuses on consolidating crucial patient-generated data to advance research and treatments within the BA community. If you’re a BA patient or caregiver, visit now to register and contribute to this vital initiative.

Potential New Treatment Option for Primary Biliary Cholangitis

CymaBay Therapeutics has recently shared the findings from the phase 3 clinical trials of Seladelpar, designed for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). In these trials, Seladelpar demonstrated a notable reduction in biomarkers linked to adverse clinical outcomes, along with a concurrent improvement in pruritus, distinguishing it from existing therapies in the market. Pending approval, this therapeutic intervention holds the potential to significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with PBC.

Breakthrough Treatment Option for PSC Receives FDA Fast-Track Designation

Chemomab Therapeutics has earned FDA fast track designation for its monoclonal antibody targeting primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). The antibody, known as CM-101 does double duty, fighting inflammation and fibrosis in key PSC pathways. The ongoing Phase 2 SPRING trial, assessing safety and biomarkers in PSC patients, is set to conclude in the second half of 2024. This designation expedites the development and review process for treatments addressing unmet medical needs for patients with PSC.

GLI collaborates with Genfit to develop a plan for ACLF

At AASLD’s The Liver Meeting® in Boston, GLI collaborated with Genefit and accomplished hepatologists to comprehend the complexities and challenges inherent in developing treatment options for patients contending with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). Representing the patient voice, we plan to continue working closely with this team to chart the journey for ACLF patients and create an effective clinical trial process in the years to come.

Upcoming Events

December 14, 2023: International Liver Cancer Association’s Update on Rare Primary Liver Cancers
February – Rare Liver Diseases Month, #RareAware Campaign

For more information about the Pediatric and Rare Liver Diseases Council or to learn more about joining, please visit our webpage or email pedsrare@globalliver.org.

Donate Today

Life-Saving Advancements in the Liver Cancer Landscape

by Global Liver Institute | Dec 6, 2023 | Liver Cancers News

Global Liver Institute announces a partnership with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Nearly a third of U.S. Veterans are at risk or are currently living with liver disease – and many are undiagnosed.

“GLI believes in equitable access to information, support, and care for liver health for all — especially our nation’s Veterans,” said Chief Operating Officer at the Global Liver Institute Larry Holden. “By partnering with VA, we have a tremendous opportunity to expand liver health education, connections, and opportunities for Veterans and their providers.”

Check out our newly launched webpage for more information.

Global Liver Institute partners with ShareCare’s patient experience lab to assess the public’s knowledge about liver cancers

During Liver Cancer Awareness Month in October, GLI and ShareCare’s patient experience lab released a short survey with general questions about liver cancer such as rates of liver cancer in the U.S. per ethnic group, leading risk factor of liver cancer, and detection of liver cancer.

With 3,482 survey responses, 60% of the respondents still believe that excessive alcohol consumption is the leading risk factor of liver cancer whereas only 16% chose the actual leading risk factor of liver cancer, viral hepatitis B. View more of the results of the survey:

Working towards Hepatitis C Eradication in Egypt

As recently as 2015, Egypt had one of the highest rates of hepatitis C infection in the world – an estimated 1 in 10 Egyptians was chronically infected. In response, the country launched a public health campaign in which the entire population was screened for hepatitis C. Egypt arranged a deal to discount drugs, making the treatment available to everyone infected with the virus and is well on the way to eliminating hepatitis C! Now, Egypt serves as a role model and even a donor of treatments in the global campaign to eliminate hepatitis C.

Liver Regeneration and Liver Cancer Surgery

MD Anderson Cancer Center has emerged as a pioneering force in preoperative portal vein embolization, a technique that promotes liver growth before surgery. While the liver has the ability to regenerate, doctors must leave at least 30 percent of the liver intact for it to grow.This requirement means that not all liver cancer patients are eligible for liver resection surgery. To address this limitation, MD Anderson has started delivering particles to the diseased section of the liver, effectively blocking blood flow to that section, allowing the healthy portion to increase in size. This approach enables otherwise ineligible patients to meet the 30 percent requirement for resection.

New Advancements In the Treatment of iCCA

A new treatment for patients with rearrangement-positive cholangiocarcinoma (otherwise known as FGFR2 fusion) has been approved by the FDA. The drug, futibatinib, is the first of its kind to covalently bind selective FGFR inhibitors and receive approval by the FDA. In trials, futibatinib has shown an 83% observed disease control rate in patients with advanced/metastatic intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Because molecular profiling is best suited for treating patients with cholangiocarcinoma, this new drug offers patients with this rare form of cancer a brighter future.

GLI Liver Cancers Department Speaks at the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer 2023 Update Meeting

On November 20, Sarah Manes, GLIs Liver Cancers Program Director, virtually attended the BCLC 2023 Update Meeting, where she spoke as a panelist about Patient Frailty and the Patient Journey. Thanks to Dr. Maria Reig and her team for this opportunity to talk about patient advocacy and education!

Check out our Liver Central website to learn more about liver cancer and stay up-to-date on the latest innovations. Explore fact sheets, educational videos, and webinars that are customized just for you!

Upcoming Events:

December 7, 2023: Liver Cancers Council meeting at 12pmEST, please contact sponce@globalliver.org for more information.
December 13, 2023: Cancer Support Group- for any cancer type and stage
December 14, 2023: Update on Rare Primary Liver Cancers
December 19, 2023: Cancer Caregiver Support Group

For more information about the Liver Cancers Council or to learn more about joining, please visit https://globalliver.org/liver-cancers-council/ or email cancer@globalliver.org, sponce@globalliver.org

Celebrating Progress and Anticipating Success in 2024

by Global Liver Institute | Dec 4, 2023 | Fatty Liver Disease News

Celebrating Progress and Anticipating Success in 2024

As 2023 comes to a close, we extend our appreciation to each of you for following our monthly NASH News updates, supporting GLI’s work, and your steadfast dedication to advancing liver health. While we celebrate this year’s accomplishments, there’s more work ahead, and we eagerly anticipate another successful year in 2024.

Global Liver Institute announces a partnership with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Nearly a third of U.S. Veterans are at-risk or are currently living with liver disease – and many are undiagnosed.

“GLI believes in equitable access to information, support, and care for liver health for all — especially our nation’s Veterans,” said Chief Operating Officer at the Global Liver Institute Larry Holden. “By partnering with VA, we have a tremendous opportunity to expand liver health education, connections, and opportunities for Veterans and their providers.”

Check out our newly launched webpage for more information.

Experiences and unmet needs in NASH: Insights from patients and patient caregivers

Jeff McIntyre, VP of Liver Health Programs, presented a poster at The Liver Meeting® in Boston, sharing insights from a forthcoming journal article on NASH patient and caregiver experiences. The research, co-authored with various contributors and supported by Boehringer Ingelheim and OPEN Health, revealed diverse NASH diagnoses among patients, a willingness to adopt lifestyle changes, and a significant demand for clearer, reliable information sources to address the substantial unmet needs in disease education and management.

Madrigal’s Number One Liver Fan Patient Service Announcement

NASH/MASH, the leading cause of liver transplants in American women, is anticipated to become the primary cause in men too. Global Liver Institute proudly participated in the launch and collaborated with Madrigal Pharmaceuticals on an educational campaign about NASH/MASH. Watch the brief video introducing Olivia, her liver’s #1 fan, and learn more about fatty liver disease.

VCU Liver Institute’s Dr. Arun Sanyal Ranks No. 2 Globally in Liver Disease Study

Global Liver Institute is proud to highlight the groundbreaking work of Dr. Arun Sanyal, Director of the Stravitz-Sanyal Institute for Liver Disease and Metabolic Health at VCU School of Medicine. As the world’s No. 2 specialist in liver diseases in three categories, including fatty liver disease, Dr. Sanyal’s contributions, spanning over 1,000 publications and 104,500 citations, have significantly influenced global medical practices. Dr. Sanyal’s research efforts have shaped the practice of medicine and care of liver diseases worldwide, improving the health of several hundred million individuals. GLI is proud of our partnership with Dr. Sanyal and looks forward to seeing more impactful research and transformative advancements in the field.

FNIH Study in Radiology Reveals MRI’s Potential for Liver Disease Measurement

The Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) reports promising findings from a study assessing the potential of noninvasive MRI biomarkers to measure liver fat, fibrosis, and body

composition in individuals at risk for NASH/MASH. The results suggest that, with further validation, these MRI biomarkers could be qualified by the FDA for use in clinical trials, offering a more accessible and flexible approach to diagnosis and monitoring of NASH/MASH.

Diabetes Linked to Liver Function Decline and Higher Cancer Risk in people with NAFLD

The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology reports that individuals with both NAFLD and type 2 diabetes have a significantly higher risk of liver failure and liver cancer. The study underscores the need for closer monitoring and early intervention in individuals with diabetes, emphasizing lifestyle management and other interventions to mitigate the increasing burden of NAFLD-related complications.

Upcoming Events

Join us at our upcoming NASH Council Meeting on December 14th! We’re thrilled to host a special guest, Dr. Frank Anania, Acting Director of the Division of Hepatology and Nutrition at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. For meeting details, contact jmcintyre@globalliver.org.

To learn more about the NASH Council or become a member, please visit https://globalliver.org/nash-council/ or email NASH@globalliver.org.

Global Fatty Liver Day

Formerly known as International NASH Day

A heartfelt thank you to all who made International NASH Day 2023 a resounding success! We look forward to our collective achievements in 2024. Partner applications are now open! Learn more about how you can be part of Global Fatty Liver Day 2024.

Donate Today

GLI Celebrates Dr. Monica Bertagnolli’s Senate Confirmation as Director of NIH

by Global Liver Institute | Nov 7, 2023 | Liver Health Policy Updates, Web Releases

GLI Celebrates Dr. Monica Bertagnolli’s Senate Confirmation as Director of NIH

Global Liver Institute is proud to have been an early supporter of the President’s nominee, Dr. Monica Bertagnolli, as the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). After nearly 2 years since Dr. Francis Collins left the position, the Senate on a bipartisan vote has now confirmed Dr. Bertagnolli as the new NIH Director.

Dr. Bertagnolli was the first woman to serve as the director of the National Cancer Institute and before that, as chief of the Division of Surgical Oncology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. She was a professor of surgery at Harvard Medical School and was recently elected to the National Academy of Medicine and served as the president of the American Society of Clinical Oncology

GLI appreciates that Dr. Bertagnolli is a cancer survivor and will continue to drive forward the Cancer Moonshot goals to end cancer as we know it. With her background coming from rural America, she brings to the job a fundamental recognition of the challenges facing people who struggle to access health care. GLI shares her concern that clinical trials need to be more diverse, a significant challenge for liver disease and cancers that disproportionately affect people of color. We are excited to work with Dr. Bertagnolli as she leads NIH with a focus on collaboration, as she has demonstrated in her leadership of the National Cancer Institute. Congratulations Dr. Bertagnolli!

Once this legislation takes effect, it will break up the monopoly that the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) holds over the OPTN to allow for innovation and competition while also enhancing accountability and transparency in the national system.

New App Helps Predict Pediatric Transplant Need

by Global Liver Institute | Nov 7, 2023 | Pediatric & Rare Liver Diseases News

New App Helps Predict Pediatric Transplant Need

New Tool for Predicting the Need for a Transplant in Pediatric Acute Liver Failure

Physicians from the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles have created a web-based app to predict whether children in acute liver failure will need a liver transplant. The Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Acute Liver Failure (CHALF) score effectively assesses whether a child’s medical condition warrants a liver transplant. This helps provide parents with valuable insight in their decision-making process when determining the need for a liver transplant for their child.

Promising Results in Pediatric Autoimmune Hepatitis with a Combination Drug Therapy

Reports from a recent meta-analysis suggest a promising therapeutic regimen combining corticosteroids and immunomodulators. This treatment approach allows for a patient’s native liver to remain functional, even when they have acute liver failure. Further research is needed to evaluate situations when this approach will be suitable to expand treatment options beyond transplant.

Alagille Medication Shows Promise in PFIC Type 2 Treatment

Maralixibat, an FDA-approved medication for alleviating pruritus in Alagille syndrome, is now showing promising potential for addressing pruritus in progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC). Reports from the Phase 3 MARCH trial made during the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) 2023 suggest that Maralixibat may emerge as a compelling option for treatment of PFIC Type 2.

Rivfloza Approved for in Primary Hyperoxaluria Treatment

The U.S. FDA has granted approval for Novo Nordisk’s therapeutic agent, Rivfloza, intended for individuals aged 9 and older, as well as adults afflicted with primary hyperoxaluria. This mechanism effectively mitigates the production of urinary oxalate originating in the liver. It is expected to be available for patients in early 2024

Upcoming Events

November 10 – 14, 2023: AASLD Liver Meeting ®
Pass by our booth (C2635) and say hello!

For more information about the Pediatric and Rare Liver Diseases Council or to learn more about joining, please visit our webpage or email pedsrare@globalliver.org.

Donate Today