Liver disease is a major and growing global public health burden, affecting an estimated 1.5 billion people worldwide. Unfortunately, many of these conditions develop silently, progressing for years without symptoms until significant damage has occurred.  

The good news? Many forms of liver disease are preventable, and even when not fully preventable, they are often manageable if caught early. Routine liver health checkups can identify issues before symptoms appear, creating opportunities for earlier intervention, better outcomes, and prevention of advanced disease. 

Why Liver Disease Goes Undetected 

Many liver diseases, including metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), develop gradually and without obvious warning signs. Symptoms are often absent or nonspecific, such as mild fatigue or discomfort.  

Often, the liver can continue to function normally even as damage begins to occur, allowing disease to progress unnoticed. 

Who Should Consider Screening 

Everyone! Liver disease can affect a wide range of individuals. However, certain groups may be at higher risk and should consider routine screening.  

This includes:  

• People with diabetes.  

• Those with obesity or metabolic syndrome.  

• Individuals with a family history of liver disease.  

• People who consume alcohol regularly.  

• Individuals with viral hepatitis risk factors. 

What Liver Screening Looks Like 

Liver screening is typically simple and noninvasive. It usually involves a combination of the following: 

• Blood tests such as liver enzymes (ALT, AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin, albumin, and International Normalized Ratio (INR). 

• Imaging using ultrasound, transient elastography (FibroScan), or an MRI or CT scan.  

• Fibrosis assessments such as FIB-4 or APRI scores. No additional testing is needed, these are calculated based on existing labs. 

What Can I Do? 

Open, ongoing conversations between patients and healthcare providers are key to identifying liver disease early. By discussing risk factors, routine labs, and any changes in health, patients and providers can work together to determine when screening is appropriate.  

Early detection can save lives. The earlier liver disease is identified, the greater the opportunity for timely intervention to slow or prevent progression. If you haven’t already, schedule a liver disease screening with your provider today!