Research has found a strong association between gallstones and MASLD.

Studies suggest that people with gallstones may also be more likely to have an underlying problem with theirliver.

How Are Gallstones Connected to MASLD And MASH?

Woman with stomach pain

Photo Illustration by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health; Getty Images

Approximately 20% of adults worldwide develop gallstones, with cholesterol-based stones being the most common.

The underlying risk factors for MASLD make your bile more prone to thickening and forming stones, Fontana said.

What This Means For You

Frequent gallstones may indicate metabolic dysfunction.

Early detection of liver problems, like MASLD, could significantly affect your health.

Younossi ZM, Kalligeros M, Henry L.Epidemiology of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease.Clin Mol Hepatol.

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2023;21(4):940-948.e2.

doi:10.1016/j.cgh.2022.04.043

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Definition and facts for gallstones.

Lammert F, Gurusamy K, Ko CW, et al.Gallstones.Nat Rev Dis Primers.