Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are conditions characterized by the buildup of fat in the liver, which can lead to inflammation and, in some cases, serious liver damage. Chronic liver disease often begins with NAFLD and can progress to NASH, increasing the risk of liver cancer and cirrhosis. M3 Wake Research conducts trials for a variety of NASH conditions, including:
- NASH/MASH/Fatty Liver
- Fibroscans
- Kidney Impairment/Kidney Disease
NASH & Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Facts
Understanding Kidney & Liver Diseases
According to the American Liver Foundation, approximately 25% of the United States population have nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Understanding the facts about NASH and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can help you determine the course of treatment options with your healthcare provider. Electing to join a clinical trial that explores innovative treatments for liver disease could lead to the next medical breakthrough that contributes to the reduction of chronic liver diseases for the general population.
Review the facts about NASH and fatty liver disease and understand how they impact overall health, and work with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your health.
Symptoms & Stages
Fatty liver disease often presents no symptoms in the early stages, but as it progresses to NASH, symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and abdominal pain may appear. NASH impacts liver cells and liver tissue, leading to inflammation, repair, and scarring, which can increase the risk of cancer and other complications.
Risk Factors
Various conditions and lifestyle factors increase the likelihood of developing NAFLD and NASH. These include obesity, high blood fat levels, diabetes, high blood pressure, age, race, and other health conditions. Diet, weight loss, and alcohol consumption also impact the risk of developing NASH.
Treatment Options
There’s no specific medication for NASH, but treatments focus on managing associated conditions like obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and achieving a healthy weight, are crucial.
Health Risks
If left untreated, NASH can lead to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer. In advanced stages of NASH, the formation of scar tissue can replace healthy liver tissue, potentially leading to liver failure. Early diagnosis and management are key to preventing severe complications and maintaining liver function.
Diagnostic Tools
A liver biopsy is often used to diagnose NAFLD and differentiate between NAFL and NASH. It involves collecting a tissue sample for lab testing to ensure fatty liver disease is the only cause of liver damage. Physicians may order other imaging tests and blood to test for other liver diseases if NAFLD is not the underlying cause.
Liver Disease Clinical Trials Contribute in Big Ways
Understanding and managing NASH and fatty liver disease involves exploring a range of interventions, including lifestyle changes, medications, and potential clinical trials. Choosing the right approach for NASH or fatty liver disease management involves considering factors such as the stage of the liver disease, overall health, and individual preferences. Educating yourself about these options is essential for making informed decisions that align with your health goals and improve your quality of life.
Qualify for a NASH or Fatty Liver Disease Clinical Trial Near You
Stay informed, see if you qualify for a liver disease study
Participating in clinical trials for NASH and fatty liver disease is a proactive way to contribute to advancements in liver disease research. End stage liver disease, including complications like decompensated cirrhosis, liver failure, portal hypertension, and primary liver cancer, is a significant concern. Clinical trials are vital for developing potential new treatments and better understanding these conditions. In severe cases, a liver transplant may be recommended as a treatment option.
“M3 Wake Research was always efficient. My appointments were always on time. The visits and calls were thorough. Being able to call anytime with questions and concerns made my participation easy. I look forward to more studies in the future.”
— Teresa Starks
Why Participate in a Liver Disease Trial
Your participation can lead to scientific innovation
By joining a trial, you gain access to the latest therapies and contribute to broader medical knowledge that can benefit others with similar conditions. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or are seeking new investigational therapies after other treatments have failed, understanding your options can significantly impact your health. Start by consulting healthcare professionals who specialize in liver health, and consider how participating in clinical trials might offer additional treatment options. Explore your options today and take an active role in managing NASH and fatty liver disease, as untreated NASH can lead to liver failure.
Enroll in a NASH or Fatty Liver Disease Clinical Trial Near You
Empower yourself to make choices that best suit your health needs by staying informed about the latest advancements in liver diseases like NASH and fatty liver disease. Participating in clinical trials may be the right choice for your condition and contribute to broader advancements in managing various liver disease, including NASH, NAFLD, and cirrhosis, to prevent liver failure. This proactive approach enhances personal well-being and helps advance the understanding and treatment of these conditions for the benefit of others.
Complete our form to locate a NASH or fatty liver disease clinical trial in your area see if you may be a candidate for enrollment. Additionally, you can explore our clinics to find one your area which may have an open research study. If you have any questions or need additional support, please contact us so that we may be of assistance.
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