Lazaro Fuentes, a former Army commander who helped transport volunteers at Ground Zero on September 11, 2001, suffered severe liver damage from the dust and toxins released when the towers collapsed. Decades later, doctors at Mount Sinai discovered that about 14% of the 9/11 responders they studied had fatty buildup in their livers, and 17% of those early arrivals showed moderate‑to‑severe disease.

Study links exposure to liver injury

Researchers used existing lung CT scans—each capturing roughly three‑quarters of the liver—to assess fat content. The analysis showed a three‑fold increase in the likelihood of fatty liver disease for those who spent more time at the site.

Experimental treatment offers hope

In 2019, Fuentes was referred to hepatologist Dr. Amon Asgharpour, who offered him enrollment in a trial of Rezdiffra, a once‑daily pill that targets liver receptors to improve fat metabolism and stimulate healthier mitochondria. After adopting a stricter diet and exercise plan, Fuentes reduced his liver fat from 30% to 16%, and once he entered the trial in 2022, his liver fat fell to 0%.

The drug received FDA approval in 2024 for patients with stage 2 or 3 steatotic liver disease, showing significant reductions in moderate scarring after a year of treatment. Fuentes, now 57, continues taking the medication along with GLP‑1 and GLP‑2 therapies to support liver health.

Personal resilience and future outlook

Fuentes credits his recovery to the medication, regular walking, meditation, and a commitment to better nutrition. While he acknowledges the possibility of future health challenges, he believes liver disease will no longer be a threat.

His story underscores the lasting impact of the 9/11 disaster on responders’ health and highlights a promising new option for those battling severe liver disease.

Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.