Presenters review recent advances in our understanding of sexual dimorphism in the liver and its contribution to liver growth, metabolism, and disease. The concepts covered by the thought leaders and content experts include the effect of sex hormones on hepatocyte proliferation and sex-specific differences in metabolic demands. They also cover concepts of sexually dimorphic responses in specific chronic pathologies including MASLD and HCC. Sex as a biological variable is often overlooked, which can result in delayed or inappropriate treatment. However, because the liver responds differently in males and females, this important variable needs to be considered both in experimental design and interpretation.

In this joint session with the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Study Group for Viral Hepatitis, experts review and discuss the most updated information on hepatitis C elimination in the United States and other countries. Presenters explore obstacles to execution of hepatitis C elimination plans and strategies to overcome these challenges.

Presenters open this session with a discussion of weight loss surgery and alcohol use. While bariatric surgery is a highly effective intervention for obesity, it is associated with an increased risk of developing alcohol use disorder (AUD) postoperatively. Speakers explore the mechanisms behind this phenomenon, including changes in alcohol metabolism and neurobiological adaptations following surgery, and share insights regarding identification of high-risk patients, implementation of preventive strategies, and providing postsurgical support to mitigate AUD risk of AUD in this vulnerable population. The second part of the session explores lifestyle interventions for MASLD and alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD). Lifestyle interventions, including diet and exercise, remain cornerstone treatments for MASLD and ALD, yet many patients struggle with adherence. Experts highlight practical guidance on prescribing and personalizing lifestyle modifications based on current evidence. Implementation of behavioral strategies, motivational techniques, and approaches to overcome common barriers to success by hepatologists can help their patients sustain long-term improvements in liver health. An interactive, case-based discussion follows. Participants engage in real-world case discussions, focusing on the intersection of MASLD, obesity, and AUD. Through a multidisciplinary approach, attendees work through complex patient scenarios, integrating behavioral, pharmacologic, and surgical interventions to enhance clinical decision-making skills.

NOTE: Continuing education credits earned at this session count as group 2 credits toward the American Board of Obesity Medicine qualifications for certification via the CME pathway.

Presenters in this session focus on advancing research and therapeutic strategies for steatotic liver disease (SLD), with an emphasis on MASLD and its subtypes. Discussions highlight lifestyle interventions, pharmacologic treatments, and global health perspectives. Experts address the challenges of implementing evidence-based care and explore innovations that improve outcomes for diverse patient populations.

Sexual, reproductive, and cultural factors profoundly impact liver health, yet these dimensions are often overlooked in hepatology care. This program explores the intersection of sexual, reproductive, and liver health in a diverse population, including people with chronic liver disease, HIV, and those who identify as LGBTQ+. Presenters provide insight and suggestions to offer culturally sensitive hepatology care with the goal of empowering clinicians to deliver inclusive, patient-centered care, improving outcomes and equity in liver health across diverse populations. Presentation topics include: (1) oral contraceptive use and pregnancy counseling, including infertility treatment and in vitro fertilization in patients with chronic liver disease and post liver transplantation; (2) common reproductive and liver issues for LGBTQ+ patients, including the hepatologic effects of gender affirming hormone therapy, use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis in people with chronic liver diseases, and transplant access; (3) the increasing prevalence of MASLD in people living with HIV (PWH)—which also disproportionally affects the LGBTQ+ and other marginalized populations—exploring unique risk factors, pathophysiology, and management strategies; and (4) culturally sensitive approaches for liver health counseling and practical guidance for specialists and community practitioners to address obstacles faced by LGBTQ+, PWH, and other marginalized populations, especially under current climates. 

Join us for an inspiring and empowering luncheon dedicated to celebrating women in hepatology. Connect with other female hepatologists by engaging in meaningful conversations about career growth and challenges, and be part of a vibrant community driving change in the field.

Sponsored by: Gilead Sciences and Madrigal Pharmaceuticals
 

The debrief sessions summarize the highest impact papers addressing key topics across the field of hepatology presented during The Liver Meeting. A group of original research reports reflecting major advances in hepatology are succinctly reviewed. Debrief 1 will cover pediatric liver disease, liver transplantation, and portal hypertension.

Hepatologists are often consulted by our oncology colleagues when patients develop immune-mediated liver injury from checkpoint Inhibitors (ILICI) that are steroid refractory and resistant. Speakers in this session discuss the exploratory second-line and third-line treatment options that have been succesfully used in case series, case reports, and in other immune-mediated adverse events such as colitis, pneumonitis, dermatitis, and myocarditis.

In an era of rapid change and uncertainty, the ability to adapt and excel is crucial for early career investigators seeking sustained success. This community conversation focuses on strategies for maintaining productivity, resilience, and innovation amid evolving professional and personal landscapes. Panelists provide actionable insights to help attendees navigate uncertainty, embrace change, manage stress and burnout, and drive meaningful progress in their work when faced with setbacks or barriers. 

Experts examine the importance of fibrosis staging in the risk assessment and management of metabolic-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). The session explores the clinical implications of focusing on early-stage versus late-stage fibrosis; evaluates the role of advanced diagnostic tools in stratifying risk; and reviews how targeted approaches can improve patient outcomes. This community conversation aims to impart a deeper understanding of how to prioritize interventions based on fibrosis severity and emerging evidence.