Expert panel will develop consensus recommendations to reduce barriers to identifying liver fibrosis in at-risk populations.
Alexandria, VA — [March 23, 2026] — The American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) is pleased to announce a new national initiative to advance early detection of liver fibrosis and reduce barriers to identifying liver disease among individuals at risk for metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The project will convene a multidisciplinary expert panel to develop consensus recommendations for systematic detection strategies that can be integrated across healthcare settings. Boehringer Ingelheim serves as the lead supporter and primary funding partner for the Scientific Advancement Support Grant, which funds the project.
Through this initiative, AASLD will bring together leaders across hepatology, endocrinology, and clinical laboratory science will develop consensus recommendations for systematic liver disease detection and address persistent barriers to early identification of liver fibrosis, particularly among individuals with cardiometabolic risk factors such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
“Early detection of liver fibrosis remains one of the most important opportunities to improve outcomes for patients with liver disease,” said Saul J. Karpen, MD, PhD, FAASLD, President of AASLD. “This initiative will bring together experts across disciplines to help establish a national consensus on how healthcare systems can more effectively identify liver disease earlier and connect patients to appropriate care.”
Although pre-existing clinical tools can identify at-risk patients, they remain underutilized in routine care. Through this initiative, AASLD aims to advance a practical, evidence-informed strategy for integrating liver disease detection into standard clinical workflows and care models across healthcare systems.
Over the next two years, AASLD will convene a multidisciplinary expert panel and engage key stakeholders to develop, review, and publish consensus recommendations aimed at improving systematic detection of liver disease. The findings will be disseminated broadly to support implementation across clinical practice and healthcare systems.
AASLD will be actively seeking to collaborate with partner organizations across hepatology, laboratory medicine, diabetes care, and related fields to ensure that the expert panel’s recommendations are widely applicable across the healthcare community.
“AASLD is proud to lead this effort by convening experts and partners across the healthcare ecosystem to advance practical solutions for earlier detection and better patient outcomes,” Dr. Karpen said.
AASLD will maintain full scientific independence and leadership over the expert panel and the development of any resulting recommendations or publications.
This initiative reflects AASLD’s continued leadership in advancing liver disease research, clinical guidance, and education to improve patient outcomes.
About AASLD
The American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD), founded in 1950, is the leading global organization of scientists and health care professionals dedicated to advancing the science and practice of hepatology and improving liver health for all. Through cutting-edge research, professional education, practice guidance, advocacy, and collaboration, AASLD works to prevent, treat, and ultimately cure liver disease. The association supports a vibrant, multidisciplinary community committed to driving innovation and improving patient outcomes worldwide. Learn more at www.aasld.org.