Abstracts of the 2021 Annual meeting of the ALEH (Asociación Latinoamericana para el Estudio del Hígado)
More infoNon-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most frequent cause of liver disease, with a worldwide prevalence of 30%. The association between NAFLD and obesity, diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome is well established. It is estimated that approximately 76% of individuals with obesity, mainly visceral obesity, have NAFLD. Previous studies have shown that anthropometric measures to assess body fat, such as body mass index, neck circumference and waist circumference are predictors of NAFLD.
ObjectiveTo assess the prevalence of NAFLD in obese individuals and the role of anthropometric measurements that estimate visceral fat as predictors of NAFLD.
MethodsAdults, over 18 years old, assisted in Antônio Pedro University Hospital, with risk of NAFLD (pre-diabetes, diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and obesity). All participants signed an informed consent form. Patient's clinical information, anthropometric, metabolic profiles were assessed. Non-invasive assessment of NAFLD was performed by ultrasound.
ResultsThe study group consisted of 40 subjects with predominance of females (87.5%). The prevalence of obesity was 55%. Higher diabetes and dyslipidemia in males (60% and 60%, respectively) when compared to females (51.4%, and 45.4%, respectively). Hepatic steatosis was present in 48.5% of women and 60% of men. Neck and waist circumference were greater in males (median 42 cm and 106.9 cm).
ConclusionHigh prevalence of patients with obesity, fatty liver and metabolic diseases. High anthropometric measurements of visceral obesity in both sexes, demonstrating to be an important risk factor for NAFLD.