Dispelling Liver Disease Stigma

Liver disease has a powerful impact on patients, their families and the public health community. An estimated 30 million people in the US have liver disease. Many are unaware of their disease status because of the often asymptomatic nature of liver disease and social stigma. After diagnosis, many patients are confronted with challenges including limited information, inadequate availability of and accessibility to clinical care and medical treatment, discrimination, isolation and depression.

The American Liver Foundation (ALF) facilitates, advocates, and promotes education, support and research for the prevention, treatment and cure of liver disease. Through its national and local education programs for the general public, healthcare and social service professionals and patients with liver disease and their families, ALF reaches more than 100,00 individuals annually. Participant knowledge has increased 36%. National and local support services have provided more than 150,000 individuals with risk assessments, counseling, support, and referrals for specialty care. ALF has granted more than $21 million to more than 650 research scientists pursuing the study of liver disease prevention, treatment and cure. Advocacy efforts on the local, state and federal level have contributed to greater awareness of liver disease and legislation that improves the lives of people with liver disease and begins to address the stigmatization of liver disease.

This session will describe ALF's comprehensive strategies to prevent liver disease and address the complex needs of people living with liver disease. We will discuss liver disease in the context of public health concerns, including the increasing prevalence of obesity.