Population perspectives on benefits and harms of screening for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver...

Screening for diseases can have psychological impacts, such as anxiety, and requires acceptability from the population to be effective. This study examined the perspectives on the benefits and harms of screening for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) among the general population to optimize screening practices.

A survey was sent to participants enrolled between 2020 and 2024 in a prospective MASLD screening study in Olmsted County, MN. The survey assessed participants' perceived anxiety, stigma, quality of life, preferred screening methods, financial concerns, and lifestyle impacts following screening and diagnosis. Of the 461 participants, 342 (74%) completed the survey. Overall, 14% of participants reported screening-related anxiety, and 14% were concerned about disclosing a potential MASLD diagnosis to others. Among those without a MASLD diagnosis, 99% felt reassured about their liver health, 48% reported an improved quality of life, and 25% made lifestyle changes pertaining to their diet, alcohol use, and physical activity. Of the 77 participants diagnosed with MASLD, 52% experienced some anxiety about their new diagnosis; however, 95% and 97% considered it important to receive an early MASLD diagnosis to mitigate the risk for cirrhosis and cardiovascular disease, respectively. Notably, 79% of diagnosed participants found the diagnosis beneficial in adopting healthier habits, with 30% achieving a >10% weight loss after screening.

This population-based survey demonstrates that the perceived benefits of proactive MASLD screening, such as increased awareness, lifestyle changes, and early diagnosis, outweigh the harms. These findings highlight the importance of early screening through patient-centered protocols to improve health outcomes.