By: Ivory Allison, National Senior Director, Community Impact, American Liver Foundation

Black history is rich with stories of resilience, innovation, and advocacy in the face of systemic health disparities. One of the most pressing yet often overlooked health concerns in the Black community is liver disease. From the impact of historical inequalities in health care access to present-day disparities in treatment and outcomes, liver health remains a critical issue that deserves attention.

The liver is one of the body’s most vital organs, responsible for detoxification, metabolism, and overall bodily function. Liver disease is a silent epidemic, especially in the Black community, which often goes undiagnosed until it reaches advanced stages, including liver cancer and liver failure. Several forms of liver disease disproportionately impact Black individuals, including:

• Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) – More common due to higher rates of obesity and diabetes in Black populations.
• Hepatitis B and C – Historically, Black Americans have had higher rates of hepatitis C infections, a major cause of liver cancer and cirrhosis.
• Liver Cancer – Black individuals are twice as likely to develop liver cancer compared to white individuals and face lower survival rates.

Black individuals are less likely to receive early screenings, access advanced treatments, or be placed on liver transplant lists. These disparities highlight the urgent need for targeted health education, advocacy, and policy changes to ensure equitable liver care.

These statistics are not just numbers, they represent real lives, families, and communities affected by this often-preventable disease. We have been intentional in sharing stories from Black and African Americans on their liver health journey like Shawanna and Darryl, who are featured on our website: https://thinkliverthinklife.org/patient-stories/

It has been a priority for American Liver Foundation (ALF) to reduce stigma, promote early screenings, and enhance liver health and overall well-being in all communities.

We have had the opportunity to collaborate with diverse organizations such as Blackdoctor.org, Association of Black Gastroenterologists and Hepatologists, Latinx Physicians of CA, National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., PA Chapter, and Black Health Matters Summit to educate the community and patients on liver health and wellness in the Black community.

ALF’s Liver Cancer Series includes a four-part webinar providing education and resources for diverse communities including African Americans, Hispanics, and American Indians. The series covers key topics including risks factors and prevalence of liver cancer, cultural influences, and effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Additionally, ALF’s national public health campaign, Think Liver Think Life™ aims to ensure every American understands their risk for liver disease, receives the appropriate screening and care coordination and feels well-informed and supported throughout their liver journey.

Five key takeaways:

1. Get Screened Early: ThinkLiverThinkLife.org
2. Eat a Liver-Friendly Diet: https://liverfoundation.org/health-and-wellness/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/
3. Limit Alcohol and Medication Overuse: More information
4. Advocate for Healthcare Equity: Become an ALF Advocate
5. Educate and Empower: www.liverfoundation.org

For more information about liver disease or for a listing of upcoming programs, please visit www.liverfoundation.org