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.
Weight Loss Surgery and Alcohol: A Dangerous Liaison?
Reem Z Sharaiha, MD MSc, Presenter
ALD
MASLD
4:40 PM - 5:10 PM
Nov
07
2025
Washington, D.C.
Interactive Case-Based Discussion: Managing Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease, Obesity, and Alcohol Use Disorder
Brittany Bromfield, MD, Presenter
ALD
MASLD
5:20 PM - 5:30 PM
Nov
07
2025
Washington, D.C.
Q&A
Mazen Noureddin, MD, MHSc, Moderator
ALD
MASLD
Objectives
Describe methods to address alcohol use disorder (AUD) and obesity in the context of liver disease by identifying effective screening tools for AUD and obesity in patients with MASLD or alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD).
Practice skills in applying brief interventions and motivational interviewing techniques to support behavioral change and improve patient outcomes.
Review implementation of evidence-based treatment strategies for AUD, obesity, and liver disease by evaluating pharmacologic and behavioral treatment options for AUD in the setting of ALD.
Summarize the latest pharmacologic and procedural interventions for obesity, including the use of anti-obesity medications and bariatric procedures, to optimize patient care and outcomes.
Discuss strategies to integrate lifestyle and multidisciplinary approaches into hepatology practice by developing personalized lifestyle intervention strategies, including diet and exercise, for patients with MASLD or ALD.