- ESSENCE Phase 3 shows semaglutide 2.4 mg reduces liver inflammation and fibrosis in MASH with a favourable hepatic safety profile.
- Post‑hoc subgroup analyses demonstrate benefit in menopausal women and in a Japanese MASH population.
- Wegovy (semaglutide) is cited as an oral 25 mg daily pill and once‑weekly injections (2.4 mg, 7.2 mg), with FDA and EMA approvals noted.
- MASH affects ~250 million people worldwide, about one in three with overweight/obesity, and ~90% of cases remain undiagnosed.
Overview
MASH (metabolic dysfunction‑associated steatohepatitis) is a progressive liver disease linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome; an estimated 250 million people are affected worldwide, about one in three of those with overweight/obesity, and roughly 90% of cases remain undiagnosed, with advanced‑stage cases projected to rise over 160% by 2030.
ESSENCE Phase 3 findings
Data from the ESSENCE programme show semaglutide 2.4 mg reduced liver inflammation and fibrosis in patients with MASH and an ESSENCE liver safety analysis reports a favourable hepatic safety profile across patient subgroups.
Subgroup analyses
Post‑hoc analyses report liver‑health benefits in menopausal women and confirm efficacy and safety in a Japanese MASH subgroup, addressing populations with distinct hormonal, metabolic or genetic risk profiles.
Real‑world impact
Real‑world evidence presented at EASL Congress 27–30 May 2026 highlights extensive underdiagnosis, substantial quality‑of‑life impairment, rising healthcare costs, and a high comorbidity burden (over 40% with type 2 diabetes; over 80% with obesity), underscoring the need for earlier detection and effective treatment options.
