Metabolic syndrome and Non alcoholic fatty liver disease among asymptomatic adults in North Kerala

Abstract

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease [NAFLD] is considered as the hepatic component of Metabolic syndrome (MS) and is a common cause of Chronic Liver Disease. Early identification of NAFLD in patients having metabolic syndrome is important in reducing the long-term morbidity.Methods: A cross sectional observational study of apparently healthy subjects attending routine health check in the hospital clinic between the age group of 18 years and 65 years for a period of six months was done. Data including medical history, anthropometric measurements, biochemical investigations and ultrasound scan abdomen were collected. Patients were categorised as metabolic syndrome based on IDF consensus criteria (2009) using population and country specific definition for waist circumference.Results: 168 consecutive subjects attending the clinic were studied out of which 75.60% (127) had NAFLD. Out of the study subjects, 80 (47.62%) had metabolic syndrome according to IDF 2009 criteria. There is a significant difference between the prevalence of NAFLD among subjects with and without metabolic syndrome (p=0.002). Logistic regression analysis showed that BMI and waist circumference were significantly contributing to the prediction model for the occurrence of NAFLD. Conclusion: Prevalence of NAFLD in those with metabolic syndrome is considerably higher than those who do not satisfy the criteria for metabolic syndrome. The study points to the importance of screening and aggressive life style intervention in patients with abdominal obesity to prevent the development of NAFLD and Metabolic Syndrome.