Understanding liver cancer risk in patients with fatty liver disease

HCC Risk Stratification in MAFLD Cirrhosis

NIH-funded research Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11159870

This study is looking at how certain health issues, like obesity and diabetes, might increase the chances of developing liver cancer in people with fatty liver disease and cirrhosis, so we can find better ways to prevent it.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11159870 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the risk factors for developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with Metabolic (dysfunction) Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) and cirrhosis. By analyzing data from a large cohort of over 5,000 cirrhosis patients, the study aims to identify metabolic markers and characteristics that contribute to HCC risk. Patients will be monitored over time to better understand how obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders influence cancer development. The findings could lead to improved risk stratification tools for better prevention strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cirrhosis and Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD), particularly those with metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients without cirrhosis or those who do not have metabolic disorders associated with fatty liver disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and early detection strategies for liver cancer in patients with fatty liver disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in identifying risk factors for liver cancer in similar patient populations, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Houston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.