Biography
Biography: Maxwell Chait
Abstract
The field of hepatology has had major advances in the evaluation and management of liver disease. The burden of liver disease worldwide depends essentially on the incidence of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The major factors causing cirrhosis are alcoholic liver disease (ALD), hepatitis B and C and nonalcoholic liver disease (NAFLD). Effective therapies for hepatitis B and C have been developed that continue to evolve with remarkable success. ALD remains a major health problem and NAFLD has become a health problem of epidemic proportions. Abstinence from alcohol and reduction in obesity are the major preventative strategies for these illnesses. Approaches continue to be developed to manage the complications of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver transplantation has evolved to a standard therapy for end-stage liver disease. Reducing the burden of liver disease through prevention, cure and treatment of complications is now possible.