Dan Marino Reveals Longstanding Liver Disease on 64th Birthday

Dan Marino disclosed on his 64th birthday in Miami that he has been living with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) since a routine checkup in 2007, and is now focused on reversing its effects through diet and exercise.

Nut Graf: The Pro Football Hall of Famer chose his birthday to shine a spotlight on MASH-formerly known as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis-to encourage early diagnosis and lifestyle changes that can halt and even reverse liver damage.

Diagnosis and Awareness Marino first learned of his fatty liver condition after feeling “a little fatigued” during a 2007 physical. Doctors identified excess fat in his liver, triggering chronic inflammation that, if untreated, can lead to cirrhosis or cancer. He kept the diagnosis private until today, aiming to raise public awareness of a treatable, yet often undiagnosed, disease.

Health Regimen and Support Since revealing his condition, Marino has adhered to a strict Mediterranean-style diet and regular workouts. He credits his wife, Claire, and former Dolphins teammate Terry Kirby with keeping him motivated. His current routine includes:

• Nightly walks and bike rides with his wife
• Gym training sessions guided by Kirby
• Annual ultrasounds and checkups to monitor liver health

Campaign and Message Marino’s announcement is part of Novo Nordisk’s “Unordinary Stories” campaign, which features athletes sharing personal health journeys. He emphasizes that consistent diet and exercise can reverse MASH and urges anyone with similar symptoms to seek medical advice promptly.

Career Highlights During his 17 seasons with the Miami Dolphins, Marino set numerous passing records and earned nine Pro Bowl selections, culminating in his 2005 Hall of Fame induction. Today, he serves as a special advisor to Dolphins CEO Tom Garfinkel, balancing his professional commitments with a renewed focus on personal health.