Last updated:
ID:
287670
Start date:
18 December 2024
Project status:
Current
Principal investigator:
Dr Yikyung Park
Lead institution:
Washington University in St. Louis, United States of America

Liver disease, such as fatty liver and liver cancer, is a rapidly growing illness worldwide. Obesity and metabolic problems are known to increase the risk of these liver diseases. However, we have limited knowledge about the role of other lifestyle factors, specifically those that disrupt our internal body clocks. When our internal body clocks are thrown off, mostly due to changes in our daily routines and environments, it can lead to metabolic issues that contribute to fatty liver diseases and potentially liver cancer as well. Therefore, this study aims to investigate whether there exist image-based marker and/or lifestyle factors that disrupt our body clocks are linked to a higher risk of liver diseases. This project will take approximately 36 months to complete.

Considering the escalating burden of liver diseases, it is crucial to focus on prevention efforts. This study will identify new modifiable risk factors that can be targeted through lifestyle interventions, making a significant contribution to disease prevention.