Release - Rep. McCarthy Vahey Liver Day

[DeLaney, Jackson]

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Monday, April 20, 2026                                                                                                              jackson...@cga.ct.gov 

 

STATE REP. CRISTIN McCARTHY VAHEY, STATE SEN. SAUD ANWAR, MEDICAL EXPERTS JOIN FOR INAUGURAL LIVER HEALTH DAY AT THE CAPITOL 

First event recognizing liver health on a statewide scale in the country 

 

State Representative Cristin McCarthy Vahey (D-133rd District) and State Senator Saud Anwar (D-3rd District), co-Chairs of the Connecticut General Assembly’s Public Health Committee, were today joined by various medical professionals for the Inaugural Connecticut Liver Health Day. 

This event marked the first recognition for liver health on a statewide scale in the country. 

It is estimated that roughly 1 in 3 adults in the United States suffers from Metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease – formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. While many will not see their MASLD diagnosis worsen to more severe forms of liver disease, those with MASLD can still suffer from fatigue, inflammation, and more. 

In 2024, the Connecticut General Assembly responded to these concerning statistics by passing PA 24-19: An Act Concerning the Health and Safety of Connecticut Residents. Part of this bill established a working group to study nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and provide a series of recommendations to the Public Health Committee, including the creation of Connecticut Liver Health Day. 

Speakers today touched on a range of topics, including screening early for liver disease, community collaboration and coordination, the need for more living organ donors, and advances in liver disease treatment options. 

“We must take a holistic approach to our liver health,” Rep. McCarthy Vahey said. “It is estimated that 30-40% of Connecticut residents suffer from MASLD, and many don’t even realize it. Recognizing Connecticut Liver Health Day allows us the opportunity to tell the public what they can do to prevent liver disease – including early screenings for at-risk groups, an active lifestyle, and a healthy diet – to treat this preventable disease. Thank you to all of the medical professionals who have championed this effort and gathered for this event to discuss this critical topic.” 

“Today, we recognize the vital importance livers represent for our overall health,” Sen. Anwar said. “As many as 90% of liver diseases can be prevented through moderation, exercise and healthy choices, but that’s not all we’re focused on – we need to support our friends and neighbors, protect against the spread of Hepatitis B and raise awareness of the importance of liver health. We’ll continue saving lives that way.” 

“Liver disease often develops silently but has serious consequences,” said Dr. Bubu Banini, a professor at the Yale School of Medicine. “We must meet this moment with greater awareness, education, research, improved access to care, and coordinated action on all fronts. We are calling for all hands on deck to change the trajectory of liver health.” 

A number of institutions joined for this event, including: 

• West Haven VA Medical Center 
• St. Mary’s Waterbury Hospital 
• Southern CT state university 
• University of Connecticut 
• Yale New Haven Hospital 
• Hartford Healthcare 
• American Liver Foundation 
• Liver and Health Innovation Consortium 

 

Rep. McCarthy Vahey represents the 133rd District, which includes Fairfield and Bridgeport. 

 

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Jackson DeLaney (He/Him/His)

Press Aide | House Democrats

 

Work: (860) 240-8372

Cell: (203) 947-6661

 

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