Ask the author session with Prof. Castera

Are you a healthcare professional specializing in hepatology or related fields? Do you grapple with the increasing prevalence and complex management of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) and its more severe form, Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH)? If so, we invite you to delve into a crucial discussion featuring Professor Laurent Castera, a renowned investigator in hepatology, particularly in the field of steatohepatitis.

Professor Castera, working at Hospital Beaujon in Paris, recently published a significant paper in “Liver International” titled “A European Survey to Identify Challenges in the Management of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease“. This study, conducted in 2023 across five European countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK), aimed to pinpoint the difficulties in diagnosing, treating, and managing individuals with MASLD and MASH, as well as to understand the obstacles hindering the adoption of relevant clinical guidelines.

In a recent “Ask the Author” session hosted by Professor Jean-François Dufour, Professor Castera presented the key findings of this important work. This engaging video provides valuable insights into the current landscape of MASLD and MASH management from the perspective of a diverse group of physicians.

Key Highlights from the Study and Discussion:

  • The study employed a real-world, cross-sectional design, incorporating both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with physicians.
  • A significant number of physicians acknowledged the high impact of MASLD or MASH on the management of patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes, with 66 to 69% of respondents indicating this. This underscores the strong association between these conditions.
  • However, a notable challenge identified was the lack of awareness regarding MASH-specific clinical guidelines issued by international societies, with over one-third (35%) of respondents unable to recall any such guidelines. Awareness was better for national guidelines.
  • To enhance the adoption of guidelines, physicians expressed a need for evidence of success (48%) and clinical guidelines addressing common MASLD comorbidities (38%).
  • The discussion highlighted the particular challenge of reaching and educating first-line physicians, such as GPs, who may not prioritize liver health in patients with known risk factors like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Their awareness of non-invasive diagnostic tools like FIB-4 and FibroScan, as well as clinical pathways, was also reported to be low.
  • Professor Castera emphasized that education, increased awareness, and the dissemination of pathways and guidelines are crucial for improving management.
  • The upcoming availability of treatments for MASLD/MASH is anticipated to be a significant catalyst for increased awareness and screening efforts.

This video offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of the challenges faced by physicians in managing MASLD and MASH across Europe. It provides crucial context for the evolving landscape of this prevalent liver disease, especially with the imminent arrival of new therapeutic options.

We strongly encourage specialists in hepatology, gastroenterology, endocrinology, and general practice to watch this insightful discussion. Understanding the perspectives and challenges faced by colleagues across Europe is vital for improving patient care and ensuring the effective implementation of future treatments and guidelines.

Click here to watch the video and gain valuable insights from Professor Castera’s expert analysis.

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