Dan Marino Reveals Liver Disease Diagnosis and Health Transformation
NFL legend Dan Marino, 63, has shared his experience with being diagnosed with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and how he has worked to improve his health. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Marino discussed his initial diagnosis in 2007 and the lifestyle changes he's made since then.
The Diagnosis: A Wake-Up Call
Marino revealed that he only experienced mild fatigue before a routine checkup led to the diagnosis. He admitted to not working out as much as he had during his playing days. Doctors informed him he had a fatty liver, later identified as MASH, previously known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, which involves excess fat accumulation in the liver and can lead to serious complications like cirrhosis and liver cancer. The Cleveland Clinic explains the risks associated with the disease.
Turning the Tide: Diet and Exercise
Following the diagnosis, Marino's doctors emphasized the importance of lifestyle changes, specifically exercise and weight loss. He notes that he is now partnered with Novo Nordisk’s Unordinary Stories campaign, where athletes share their health journeys. He said his doctor also recommended the Mediterranean diet and to “cut back on the wine and pizza and candy, ice cream, those kind of things, you know — you can’t eat those as much.”
The Power of Support
Marino emphasizes the significance of his support system in his health journey. His former teammate Terry Kirby trains him at a local gym, and his wife, Claire, joins him for nightly walks and bike rides. He acknowledges her crucial role in managing his appointments and ensuring he stays on track with his health regimen.
A Message of Awareness and Hope
Marino hopes that by sharing his story, he can raise awareness about MASH and encourage others to seek treatment. He highlights the importance of consistency in diet and exercise for managing the condition. He stated, “if you get diagnosed with fatty liver and MASH, doing the things you need to do, like I talked about — diet, working out — and staying consistent with it, that’s what our message really is.” He said he is now sharing his diagnosis in hopes that it helps others.
Looking Ahead
Marino reports that his condition remains stable, with regular checkups showing positive results. He believes his prognosis will continue to improve. He hopes his story will “get people aware of it, so maybe they can get treated and it can make a difference in their lives." Dan Marino spent 17 seasons with the Miami Dolphins.
