Obesity and Metabolic Dysfunction – Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) Education Program for Family Physicians
Lin-Ya HUANG and Jason Jiunshiou LEE
Obesity and metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) represent two of the most rapidly growing global health challenges, with significant implications for primary care. Family physicians are uniquely positioned to identify individuals at risk, initiate early interventions, and coordinate long-term management; however, many report limited confidence in diagnosing MASLD, interpreting non-invasive liver assessment tools, or integrating evidence-based obesity treatment strategies into routine practice. To address this gap, we developed a comprehensive education program aimed at enhancing family physicians’ knowledge, diagnostic skills, and clinical decision-making related to obesity and MASLD.As Polish Society of Family Medicine we recognized the need to develop education strategies for family physicians based on current international guidelines and focused on translating emerging evidence into practical, patient-centered approaches.We have designed online courses, performed webinars and prepared adequate materials. These included updated diagnostic criteria for obesity as well as MASLD and the MASLD–MASH spectrum, use of non-invasive tests such as FIB-4, liver elastography, and biochemical markers to stratify fibrosis risk and evidence-based obesity management strategies ranging from lifestyle interventions to pharmacotherapy and referral pathways for bariatric procedures. Special emphasis was placed on early identification of high-risk patients, counseling techniques that improve patient engagement, and addressing stigma surrounding weight and liver disease. We plan to present our education program and experience in order to share all findings and solutions as well as indicate the potential barriers.Improvement of participants role security and therapeutic committment through training. Not only in regard to peer to peer education but also to increase confidence in diagnosing obesity and MASLD, interpreting fibrosis risk scores, prescribing anti-obesity medications, and initiating structured weight-management plans.This education program equips family physicians with the competencies needed to recognize, prevent, and manage obesity-related liver disease more effectively. By strengthening primary care capacity, the initiative has the potential to reduce the burden of obesity, MASLD, improve patient outcomes, and promote earlier, more equitable access to evidence-based treatment.
