CANADA, March 23, 2026 – This Liver Health Month, Liver Canada is drawing attention to the continued rise in liver disease cases and the growing importance of liver health for Canadians.
Liver disease has been increasing steadily in recent years, with research modelling the most common form of liver disease, Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), projecting a continued rise in cases through 2030. At the same time, liver cancer, once considered rare, is now among the fastest-growing cancers in Canada. These concerning developments underscore the need for greater awareness and proactive prevention to reduce long-term impacts on individuals and Canada’s health-care system.
“Often called a ‘silent’ disease, liver conditions can progress without obvious symptoms until they are advanced,” says Jennifer Nebesky, President & CEO of Liver Canada. “By understanding risk factors and taking preventive steps, Canadians can help protect their liver health and reduce the likelihood of serious complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.”
MASLD and other liver diseases are closely connected to metabolic health, including conditions such as type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol, as well as broader lifestyle and environmental factors that influence overall health. With these risk factors continuing to rise, experts say greater awareness and early action are critical.
“Liver disease is more common than many people realize, and its prevalence has been increasing for years,” says Dr. Samuel S. Lee, hepatologist, Professor of Medicine (Emeritus) at the University of Calgary and Liver Canada board member. “Liver Health Month is an important reminder for Canadians to take liver health seriously and to have open conversations with their health-care providers.”
This Liver Health Month, Liver Canada is calling on Canadians to:
- Learn their risk factors
- Talk to their health-care provider about liver health
- Challenge stigma and misinformation
- Take proactive steps to prevent disease progression
Certain forms of liver disease are preventable or manageable when caught early, and awareness is the first step.
