AN over-the-counter health supplement brand has encouraged the public to take advantage of free liver testing as part of an initiative to improve access to early screening among Filipinos. In a statement on Friday, Essentiale Forte P, in partnership with drugstore Mercury Drug, said it launched a free liver test program in select branches of the drugstore nationwide. The initiative will run throughout the year. According to the Hepatology Society of the Philippines, about 18 million Filipinos are at risk of developing fatty liver disease — a condition often referred to as a “silent epidemic” due to its lack of visible symptoms in its early stages. With symptoms often not immediately visible, many people remain unaware of the condition until it has already progressed into a more serious health concern. Gheck Barlis, brand manager of Phospholipids Essentiale Forte P, said limited awareness about liver health contributes to the growing risk. “Many Filipinos are unaware that everyday lifestyle factors such as diet, stress, and alcohol consumption, as well as existing conditions such as hypertension, obesity, and type 2 diabetes, can affect liver health,” Barlis said. The program offers a Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase (SGPT) test, which measures liver enzyme levels, using a small blood sample. Elevated SGPT levels can indicate potential liver damage, making it a critical diagnostic tool for early detection. Cora Lim, vice president for Merchandising of Mercury Drug Corporation, stressed the importance of the initiative. “Preventive health care empowers customers to take charge of their well-being. By partnering with Essentiale, we can bring meaningful health initiatives to our stores and foster better health outcomes for the Filipino community,” Lim said. They told The Manila Times there is no official list of branches offering free testing, as it may change frequently. They instead urged consumers to regularly check the official social media pages of Essentiale PH and Mercury Drug or inquire directly at the Mercury Drug branch nearest them.