#United States #San Diego #Target RWE #GLP-1 Agonists #MASLD

Target RWE Presents Insights on GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

At the recent Liver Meeting 2024, held in San Diego, CA from November 15-19, Target RWE made significant strides in the field of liver disease research by presenting their latest findings on glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). This pivotal research focused on their application in patients suffering from metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), shedding light on the urgent need for effective treatments and management strategies in this growing patient population.

Understanding MASLD and its Implications

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease is an increasingly recognized condition characterized by fat accumulation in the liver, often linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes. As the prevalence of obesity and its related conditions continues to rise, the urgency for effective interventions has never been greater. The research conducted by Target RWE aimed to provide real-world evidence on how GLP-1 receptor agonists could potentially alter the disease trajectory and enhance patient outcomes.

Key Findings from the Study

The study titled "Use of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Patients with MASLD in a Real-World Setting Is Associated with Slower Disease Progression and Lower All-Cause Mortality" analyzed data from a patient cohort of 4,219 with MASLD. Among these, 375 patients who were users of GLP-1 RAs were assessed to understand their unique health outcomes compared to non-users. Some of the crucial findings included:

• - Demographics and Risks: The GLP-1 RA users tended to be predominantly female, with higher incidences of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension.
• - Mortality Risks: The adjusted hazard ratios indicated that non-users of GLP-1 RAs faced a staggering 2.3-fold increase in all-cause mortality, and a 1.7 times greater risk of progressing to decompensated cirrhosis compared to their counterparts using GLP-1 therapies.
• - Risk Factors Evaluation: Those with diabetes, hypertension, older ages, or belonging to non-white racial groups experienced heightened hazard risks, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions.

Expert Commentary

Dr. A. Sidney Barritt IV, the first author of the study and a notable figure in the field, highlighted the dual advantages of GLP-1 RA utilization in MASLD patients: not only does it appear to slow the progression of liver disease, but it also may contribute to reduced mortality rates. He emphasized the importance of further clinical evaluations, especially given the recent approval of GLP-1 RAs for obesity treatment, which could provide additional insights into their long-term efficacy and safety for MASLD.

Future Directions and Research Initiatives

Target RWE is keen on expanding its research efforts through its TARGET-LIVER DISEASE (TARGET-LD) observational real-world study, which aims to compile comprehensive clinical data across different health systems in the U.S. This ongoing research will delve into various subpopulations with chronic liver diseases, including hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and other forms of liver dysfunction, thereby paving the way for tailored treatment regimens.

As the landscape of liver disease research unfolds, Target RWE’s work stands as a beacon for the potential of real-world evidence in guiding effective medical interventions and improving patient outcomes. Their ongoing commitment to understanding the implications of metabolic diseases on liver health will undoubtedly catalyze further advancements in care and treatment strategies.

For more details on Target RWE's research and initiatives, you can visit their official website at Target RWE.