JAMA Network JAMA Internal Medicine : Targeting MASLD and MASH in the US Hispanic/Latino Population
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Sep 22, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Dr. Sammy Saab, a leading expert in liver disease from UCLA, shares insights on MASLD and MASH in the U.S. Hispanic/Latino population. He reveals the 'perfect storm' of factors affecting this group, from genetics to access to healthcare. Dr. Saab addresses critical gaps in primary care and discusses innovative screening methods. He emphasizes the importance of culturally sensitive diet guidance and practical lifestyle interventions, advocating for tailored solutions to improve health outcomes.
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Personal Roots of Concern
- Sammy Saab describes growing up in Southeast Los Angeles with Latino parents and seeing fatty liver dismissed as nothing.
- He watched family and friends progress to cirrhosis and liver cancer, which motivated his work.
A Multi‑Layered Risk Profile
- Latinos face a 'perfect storm' of genetic susceptibility, higher metabolic disease rates, and adverse environments driving MASLD risk.
- These combined factors increase progression to cirrhosis and liver cancer in the community.
Care Gaps Worsen Outcomes
- Access to primary care and proper diabetes management is lower for many Latino patients, worsening liver outcomes.
- Institutional, financial, and educational barriers drive differences in treatment and medication access.