Join a MASH Cirrhosis Clinical Study in San Antonio

Individuals who live with advanced liver disease often experience tough physical and emotional symptoms. Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH) is a liver condition that can worsen over time and lead to serious issues like cirrhosis, which causes significant liver scarring and affects overall health.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with MASH-related cirrhosis, you might qualify for a clinical research study offered by Quality Research in San Antonio, Texas. This study is testing a new drug called pegozafermin to see if it helps treat liver scarring from MASH. By participating, you may access new investigational treatments and help advance medical research for future generations.

Let’s take a closer look at the symptoms of MASH, the importance of clinical trials, and what to expect if you choose to participate in a study.

Understanding MASH: What It Means for Your Liver Health

Understanding MASH: What It Means for Your Liver HealthMetabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH), previously called Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), is a severe form of fatty liver illness. It occurs when the liver accumulates excessive fat, resulting in swelling and harm to liver cells. Eventually, this can cause the liver to develop scars, known as fibrosis, potentially leading to cirrhosis or liver malfunction.

MASH is often linked to conditions like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol. Many people do not know they have it in the early stages because it usually doesn’t show symptoms until it has significantly progressed.

What Causes Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH)?

MASH is closely related to metabolic syndrome, which includes conditions like obesity, insulin resistance, high blood sugar, and high triglycerides. These issues can lead to fat buildup in the liver and cause inflammation.

Here are some factors that can contribute to MASH:

  1. Genetics: A family history of liver disease can increase your risk.
  2. Unhealthy habits: Eating a lot of processed foods and not being active can contribute to MASH.
  3. Certain medications: Some drugs may harm liver health over time.
  4. Hormonal changes: Changes in hormone levels can be a major factor, especially for individuals who have problems such as PCOS or thyroid issues.

By recognizing and addressing these factors early, patients may slow the disease’s progression and lower the chances of serious complications like cirrhosis.

MASH and Liver Disease Stages: Where It Fits in the Progression

MASH and Liver Disease Stages: Where It Fits in the ProgressionLiver disease has several stages, and understanding them is important for recognizing MASH and the need for treatment:

  1. Simple fatty liver (steatosis): Fat builds up in the liver without causing damage.
  2. Steatohepatitis (MASH): Fat, inflammation, and damage to liver cells occur.
  3. Fibrosis: Scar tissue forms, replacing healthy liver tissue.
  4. Cirrhosis: Extensive scarring harms liver function, potentially leading to serious issues like high blood pressure in the liver, fluid buildup, and liver failure.

MASH is a key middle stage where making lifestyle changes and receiving treatment can help prevent or delay more serious problems.

Can MASH Be Reversed? Treatment and Lifestyle Options

The good news is that early-stage MASH (Metabolic-Associated Steatotic Hepatitis) can sometimes be reversed with lifestyle changes and proper care. Although cirrhosis is serious and cannot be fully reversed, you can prevent further damage.

Here are some treatment options:

  1. Weight Loss: Aiming for a 7-10% reduction can help decrease fat and swelling in your liver.
  2. Healthy Diet: Adopt a Mediterranean-style diet, rich in fruits, veggies, and low-fat proteins.
  3. Regular Exercise: Staying active improves insulin sensitivity and liver health.
  4. Manage Health Conditions: Control diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol.
  5. Participate in Clinical Research: Joining studies, such as the one for pegazofirmin at Quality Research, can provide access to new investigational treatments for MASH-related cirrhosis.

Life Expectancy with MASH: What You Need to Know

Life Expectancy with MASH: What You Need to KnowLife expectancy for individuals with MASH (Metabolic-Associated Steatotic Hepatitis) varies based on the stage of liver disease and the rate at which it progresses.

  • Early-stage MASH: With appropriate lifestyle changes and treatment, many people can live long and healthy lives.
  • Advanced MASH with cirrhosis: This stage requires ongoing medical care and monitoring to prevent complications.
  • Untreated cirrhosis: This condition may lead to liver failure or the necessity for a transplant.

By participating in clinical research and making health improvements, patients can often extend their lives and enhance their quality of life.

How Serious Is MASH and Why Early Care Matters

MASH is a serious condition, but its effects can vary from person to person. In some individuals, it progresses slowly over many years, while in others, it advances rapidly. Because the disease often remains silent until the liver is significantly damaged, regular checkups and early screening are essential for those at risk.

Early intervention not only helps preserve liver health but also provides patients with access to clinical trials and new treatment options before irreversible damage occurs.

About the MASH Cirrhosis Study at Quality Research

Receiving Study Medication or PlaceboThe good news is that Quality Research in San Antonio is seeking participants for a Phase 2 study that will test whether pegazofirmin is safe and effective in treating liver damage caused by MASH.

Eligibility includes:

  • Adults aged 18-80
  • Diagnosed with MASH-related cirrhosis
  • If your BMI is over 25 kg/m², visit Quality Research to learn more and check if you qualify.

This research is randomized and placebo-controlled (set up so that neither the people taking part nor the study team will know who is getting the actual medicine). This setup helps ensure the results are not influenced by anyone’s expectations. By being a part of this, you will:

  • Help with important research about liver disease.
  • Get medical care from experienced doctors.
  • Support the development of better treatments for cirrhosis linked to MASH.

To learn more or see if you qualify, visit Quality Research today.

Take the Next StepTake the Next Step

MASH-related cirrhosis is a serious condition, but there is hope through research and new treatments. By joining this clinical trial, you can help develop better options for yourself and many others with advanced liver disease.

Don’t wait. Check if you qualify for the study and take the first step toward a healthier future.