Clinical profiles and mortality rates are similar for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Recently, the term metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has replaced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Concern remains regarding whether the evidence generated under the NAFLD definition can be used for MASLD. We compared the clinical profile and outcomes of NAFLD to MASLD using tertiary care- and population-based data.

METHODS

Comparison data were obtained from our NAFLD database and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III). Clinical profiles and non-invasive tests (enhanced liver fibrosis [ELF] score, fibrosis-4 index [FIB-4] and vibration-controlled transient elastography) were compared. Mortality data were obtained from NHANES-National Death Index. All-cause mortality was assessed by Cox proportional hazards regression models and cause-specific mortality by competing risk analysis.

RESULTS

There were 6,429 patients in the NAFLD database (age: 54 ± 12 years, 42% male, BMI 35.4 ± 8.3, waist circumference 112 ± 17 cm, 52% type 2 diabetes). Average scores for ELF, FIB-4 and liver stiffness were 9.6 ± 1.2, 1.69 ± 1.24,14.0 ± 11.8 kPa, respectively; 99% met MASLD criteria; 95% met MASLD on BMI only. Predictive accuracy of ELF and FIB-4 were identical between MASLD and NAFLD. We included 12,519 eligible participants from NHANES (age 43.00 years, 47.38% male, 22.70% obese, 7.28% type 2 diabetes, 82.51% ≥1 cardiometabolic criteria). Among the NHANES study population, there was excellent concordance between MASLD and NAFLD diagnoses: Cohen's kappa coefficient: 0.968 (95% CI 0.962-0.973) with 5.29% of NAFLD cases not meeting MASLD criteria. After a median follow-up of 22.83 years, there were no mortality differences between MASLD and NAFLD diagnoses (p values ≥0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

NAFLD and MASLD are similar except individuals with MASLD seem to be older with slightly higher mortality risk, likely owing to cardiometabolic risk factors. Clinical profiles and non-invasive test thresholds were also identical. These data provide evidence that NAFLD and MASLD terminologies can be used interchangeably. For the small proportion of patients with NAFLD who do not meet MASLD criteria, further consideration is needed.

IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS

In June 2023, new terminology (MASLD) was adopted to replace the term NAFLD as a means to better describe what the liver disease is rather than what it is not, as well as to potentially reduce stigma. Given that MASLD requires at least one cardiometabolic risk factor, questions were raised as to whether this change in the definition would nullify the similarities between NAFLD and MASLD and require new evidence to be generated for MASLD. We used our NAFLD database and a US population-based database to show that the vast majority of patients with NAFLD fulfill criteria for MASLD. Non-invasive tests performed similarly in both groups. Mortality risk was slightly higher in those with MASLD, which is attributed to the presence of cardiometabolic risks. These results provide evidence that data generated in the past three decades for NAFLD can be used interchangeably for MASLD.

Clinical and patient-reported outcomes in patients with chronic hepatitis B and C and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease from real-world practices in Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt

Patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) experience health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) impairments. We assessed and identified predictors of HRQoL and PROs in CLD patients from Saudi Arabia (SA), Turkey and Egypt. Patients enrolled in Global Liver Registry™ with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), chronic hepatitis C (CHC) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) were included. Clinical data and PRO questionnaires (FACIT-F, CLDQ and WPAI) were compared across countries. Linear regression identified PRO predictors. Of the 4014 included patients, 26.9% had CHB, 26.9% CHC and 46.1% NAFLD/NASH; 19.2% advanced fibrosis. Compared across countries, CHB patients were younger in Egypt (mean age [years] 41.2 ± 11.4 vs. 45.0 ± 10.3 SA, 46.1 ± 12.0 Turkey), most often employed in SA (64.8% vs. 53.2% Turkey) and had the lowest prevalence of obesity in Turkey (26.7% vs. 37.8% SA, 38.5% Egypt). In SA, CHB patients had lowest prevalence of fibrosis and comorbidities (all p < .01). There was a higher frequency of males with NAFLD/NASH in SA (70.0% vs. 49.6% Turkey, and 35.5% Egypt). Among NAFLD/NASH patients, CLDQ-NAFLD/NASH scores were highest in SA (mean total score: 5.3 ± 1.2 vs. 4.8 ± 1.2 Turkey, 4.1 ± 0.9 Egypt, p < .01). Independent predictors of worse PROs included younger age, female sex, advanced fibrosis, non-hepatic comorbidities and lack of regular exercise (all p < .05). Clinical presentation and PRO scores of CLD patients vary across SA, Turkey and Egypt. Impairment of HRQoL is associated with demographic factors, lack of regular exercise, advanced fibrosis and non-hepatic comorbidities.

Food Insecurity, Low Household Income, and Low Education Level Increase the Risk of Having Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease Among Adolescents in the United States

INTRODUCTION

In the United States, 10.2% households (HH) report child food insecurity. We assessed associations between metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD) and food insecurity among the adolescents in the United States.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was performed using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2017-2018. Food insecurity was assessed by the US Department of Agriculture Child Food Security Survey Module. MASLD was defined by transient elastography.

RESULTS

Among 771 adolescents (aged 12-18 years) (mean age 14.7 years; 52.5% male; 50.9% White, 12.7% Black, 24.4% Hispanic, and 12.1% other), 9.8% reported food insecurity; MASLD prevalence of 10.12% (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.13%-13.20%) affecting 4.27 million adolescents; and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease prevalence of 10.77% (95% CI 7.76-13.78) affecting 4.52 million adolescents. There was near-perfect concordance between MASLD and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (Cohen's κ coefficient of 0.971, 95% CI 0.946-0.996). The prevalence of MASLD was greater among food-insecure adolescents vs food-secure ones (17.4% vs 9.4%) and adolescents living with a low HH income vs those with a higher HH income (15.0% vs 7.2%) and living with a head of HH with a lower education level vs one with a higher education level (18.0% vs 8.2%) ( P < 0.05). The fully adjusted model showed that compared with adolescents living in a higher HH income, food-insecure adolescents living in low income HH had a 3-fold greater risk (odds ratio [OR] 3.25, 1.31-8.08) of having MASLD, while food-secure adolescents living in low-income HH had no increased risk (OR 1.58, 0.85-2.93, P = 0.139). The fully adjusted odds of having MASLD was elevated by +163% with the presence of HTN (OR 2.63, 1.02-6.78), +241% with being Hispanic (OR 3.41, 1.36-8.56), and +138% with being male (OR 2.38, 1.20-4.75). In addition, a 1-unit increase in BMI was associated with 25% increase in the odds of having MASLD (OR 1.25, 1.17-1.33) among US adolescents.

DISCUSSION

Food insecurity is associated with MASLD among US low-income adolescents especially Hispanic male individuals with obesity and hypertension. Policies addressing inequities are needed.

Prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in the Middle East and North Africa

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is common and closely associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D). We assessed the prevalence of NAFLD/MASLD in the general population and among patients with T2D in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

METHODS

We searched PubMed and Embase for English-language articles published between 1990 and 2023 according to PRISMA. Each country's NAFLD/MASLD prevalence in the general population and in T2D patients was predicted by using a multivariable meta regression model. Input data were extracted from our systematic review, GBD and NCD Risk Factor Collaboration. Confidence intervals were constructed by using prediction intervals with the delta method.

RESULTS

Meta-analytic pooling estimated the prevalence of NAFLD/MASLD as 39.43% in the general population and 68.71% among T2D patients. NAFLD/MASLD prevalence has increased from 35.42% (2008-2016) to 46.20% (2017-2020). Using GBD-2019 dataset, it was predicted that there are 141.51 million cases of NAFLD/MASLD in the MENA region. The highest number of NAFLD/MASLD cases were expected in Egypt (25.71 million), followed by Türkiye (23.33 million) and Iran (19.85 million). Estimated NAFLD prevalence exceeded 40% in 10 of 21 countries with the top countries being Kuwait (45.37%), Egypt (45.0%), Qatar (44.4%), and Jordan (43.3%). Furthermore, it was predicted that there are 24.96 million cases of NAFLD/MASLD with T2D in the MENA region.

CONCLUSIONS

In the MENA region, prevalence of NAFLD/MASLD is very high and growing, necessitating an urgent need for regional public policy to deal with this growing burden.

The impact of hepatitis B and C positive serologies on the outcomes of non-hepatic solid organ transplantation in the United States

Chronic viral hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) infection could negatively affect outcomes of non-hepatic solid organ transplantations due to the risk of viral reactivation in the presence of immunosuppression. This study aimed to determine post-transplant outcomes in patients with HBV or HCV positivity receiving non-hepatic solid-state organ transplant. Data was collected from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (SRTR) 2006-2021 for patients (≥18) who received a lung, heart, or kidney single organ transplant in the U.S. Hepatitis C positivity (HCV+) was determined as positive HCV Ab and hepatitis B positivity (HBV+) as positive HBsAg. We included N = 30,872 lung, N = 36,990 heart and N = 280,162 kidney transplant recipients. The prevalence of HBV+ was 1.3% in lung, 1.5% in heart and 1.7% in kidney patients, HCV+ was 2.2%, 2.2% and 5.0%, respectively. Post-transplant survival of patients with vs. without HBV+ was similar in all solid organ transplants (all p > .05). Similarly, there was no difference in post-transplant survival between lung transplant recipients with vs. without anti-HCV (all p > .05). Heart transplant recipients with HCV+ had higher crude post-transplant mortality (all p < .01). Similarly, there was higher post-transplant mortality in kidney transplant recipients with HCV+ (1-year: 6% vs. 3%; 5-year: 21% vs. 13%; 10-year: 47% vs. 31%; all p < .0001). In multivariate analysis controlling for confounders, only the association of HCV+ with higher post-kidney transplant mortality remained significant: adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) (95% CI) = 1.16 (1.12-1.20), p < .0001. There was no association of viral hepatitis seropositivity with the risk of graft failure in all groups (p > .05). In most cases, the presence of HBV or HCV serologies is not associated with adverse post-transplant outcomes in non-hepatic solid organ transplants. However, kidney transplant recipients who are positive for HCV serology have an increased risk for post-transplant mortality.

Epidemiology of NAFLD - Focus on diabetes

There is increasing appreciation of the complex interaction between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and insulin resistance. Not only is the prevalence of NAFLD disease high among patients with T2D, the liver disease is also more progressive. Currently, the global prevalence of NAFLD in the general population (2016-2019) is 38 %. The prevalence of T2D among those with NAFLD is approximately 23 % while the prevalence of NAFLD among those with T2D can be as high as 70 %. The prevalence of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is approximately 7 % in the general population and 37 % among patients with T2D. Globally, the MENA and Latin America regions of the world appear to have the highest burden of both NAFLD and T2D. Compared to those with NAFLD but without T2D, those with NAFLD and T2D are at a much higher risk for disease progression to cirrhosis and for decompensated cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and all-cause mortality. Given that highly effective new treatments are available for T2D, high risk NAFLD with T2D should be considered for these regimens. This requires implementation of risk stratification algorithms in the primary care and endocrinology practices to identify those patients at highest risk for adverse outcomes.

The Global Epidemiology of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now known as metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is closely associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Our aim was to estimate the most recent global prevalence of NAFLD/MASLD, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), now known as metabolic dysfunction associated steatohepatitis (MASH), advanced fibrosis, and mortality among patients with T2D.

METHODS

We systematically searched PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE for terms including NAFLD, NASH, and T2D published in 1990-2023 according to PRISMA. The meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model. Assessment of bias risk used the Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal tool.

RESULTS

From 3134 studies included in the initial search, 123 studies (N = 2,224,144 patients with T2D) were eligible. Another 12 studies (N = 2733 T2D patients with liver biopsy) were eligible for histologic assessments. The global pooled prevalence of NAFLD/MASLD among patients with T2D was 65.33% (95% confidence interval, 62.35%-68.18%). This prevalence increased from 55.86% (42.38%-68.53%) in 1990-2004 to 68.81% (63.41%-73.74%) in 2016-2021 (P = .073). The highest NAFLD/MASLD prevalence among T2D patients was observed in Eastern Europe (80.62%, 75.72%-84.73%), followed by the Middle East (71.24%, 62.22%-78.84%), and was lowest in Africa (53.10%, 26.05%-78.44%). Among patients with liver biopsy data, the global pooled prevalence of NASH/MASH, significant fibrosis, and advanced fibrosis was 66.44% (56.61%-75.02%), 40.78% (24.24%-59.70%), and 15.49% (6.99%-30.99%), respectively. The pooled all-cause mortality was 16.79 per 1000 person-years (PY) (10.64-26.40), 4.19 per 1000 PY (1.34-7.05) for cardiac-specific mortality; 6.10 per 1000 PY (0.78-4.88) for extrahepatic cancer-specific mortality; and 2.15 per 1000 PY (0.00-2.21) for liver-specific mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of NAFLD/MASLD among T2D is high and growing. The majority of NAFLD/MASLD patients with T2D have NASH/MASH, and a significant proportion have advanced fibrosis.

Global survey of stigma among physicians and patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Patients with fatty liver disease may experience stigma from the disease or comorbidities. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to understand stigma among patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and healthcare providers.

METHODS

Members of the Global NASH Council created two surveys about experiences/attitudes toward NAFLD and related diagnostic terms: a 68-item patient and a 41-item provider survey.

RESULTS

Surveys were completed by 1,976 patients with NAFLD across 23 countries (51% Middle East/North Africa [MENA], 19% Europe, 17% USA, 8% Southeast Asia, 5% South Asia) and 825 healthcare providers (67% gastroenterologists/hepatologists) across 25 countries (39% MENA, 28% Southeast Asia, 22% USA, 6% South Asia, 3% Europe). Of all patients, 48% ever disclosed having NAFLD/NASH to family/friends; the most commonly used term was "fatty liver" (88% at least sometimes); "metabolic disease" or "MAFLD" were rarely used (never by >84%). Regarding various perceptions of diagnostic terms by patients, there were no substantial differences between "NAFLD", "fatty liver disease (FLD)", "NASH", or "MAFLD". The most popular response was being neither comfortable nor uncomfortable with either term (56%-71%), with slightly greater discomfort with "FLD" among the US and South Asian patients (47-52% uncomfortable). Although 26% of patients reported stigma related to overweight/obesity, only 8% reported a history of stigmatization or discrimination due to NAFLD. Among providers, 38% believed that the term "fatty" was stigmatizing, while 34% believed that "nonalcoholic" was stigmatizing, more commonly in MENA (43%); 42% providers (gastroenterologists/hepatologists 45% vs. 37% other specialties, p = 0.03) believed that the name change to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (or MASLD) might reduce stigma. Regarding the new nomenclature, the percentage of providers reporting "steatotic liver disease" as stigmatizing was low (14%).

CONCLUSIONS

The perception of NAFLD stigma varies among patients, providers, geographic locations and sub-specialties.

IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS

Over the past decades, efforts have been made to change the nomenclature of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to better align with its underlying pathogenetic pathways and remove any potential stigma associated with the name. Given the paucity of data related to stigma in NAFLD, we undertook this global comprehensive survey to assess stigma in NAFLD among patients and providers from around the world. We found there is a disconnect between physicians and patients related to stigma and related nomenclature. With this knowledge, educational programs can be developed to better target stigma in NAFLD among all stakeholders and to provide a better opportunity for the new nomenclature to address the issues of stigma.

Understanding the Burden of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Time for Action

The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the United States is 38%, having increased by 50% within the past 3 decades. The estimated NAFLD prevalence among people with type 2 diabetes is 55-70%. The presence of type 2 diabetes is associated with a higher likelihood of progression of NAFLD to fibrosis development, liver transplant, and death. Cardiovascular disease is the main cause of mortality among people with NAFLD, and the risk of death is significantly higher in people with both NAFLD and type 2 diabetes. NAFLD carries high patient and economic burdens but low awareness among both the general public and health care providers. This article reviews the epidemiology of NAFLD and discusses the need for appropriate risk stratification, referral for specialty care, management of cardiometabolic risk factors, and treatment of the disease. The authors present a call to action to raise awareness of NAFLD and address its increasing burden in a systematic and efficient manner.

A global action agenda for turning the tide on fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Fatty liver disease is a major public health threat due to its very high prevalence and related morbidity and mortality. Focused and dedicated interventions are urgently needed to target disease prevention, treatment, and care.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

We developed an aligned, prioritized action agenda for the global fatty liver disease community of practice. Following a Delphi methodology over 2 rounds, a large panel (R1 n = 344, R2 n = 288) reviewed the action priorities using Qualtrics XM, indicating agreement using a 4-point Likert-scale and providing written feedback. Priorities were revised between rounds, and in R2, panelists also ranked the priorities within 6 domains: epidemiology, treatment and care, models of care, education and awareness, patient and community perspectives, and leadership and public health policy. The consensus fatty liver disease action agenda encompasses 29 priorities. In R2, the mean percentage of "agree" responses was 82.4%, with all individual priorities having at least a super-majority of agreement (> 66.7% "agree"). The highest-ranked action priorities included collaboration between liver specialists and primary care doctors on early diagnosis, action to address the needs of people living with multiple morbidities, and the incorporation of fatty liver disease into relevant non-communicable disease strategies and guidance.

CONCLUSIONS

This consensus-driven multidisciplinary fatty liver disease action agenda developed by care providers, clinical researchers, and public health and policy experts provides a path to reduce the prevalence of fatty liver disease and improve health outcomes. To implement this agenda, concerted efforts will be needed at the global, regional, and national levels.

Recompensation in cirrhosis: unravelling the evolving natural history of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Recompensation has gained increasing attention in the field of cirrhosis, particularly in chronic liver disease with a definite aetiology. The current global prevalence of obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing, but there is currently a lack of a clear definition for recompensation in NAFLD-related cirrhosis. Here, we provide an up-to-date perspective on the natural history of NAFLD, emphasizing the reversible nature of the disease, summarizing possible mechanisms underlying recompensation in NAFLD, discussing challenges that need to be addressed and outlining future research directions in the field. Recompensation is a promising goal in patients with NAFLD-related cirrhosis, and further studies are needed to explore its underlying mechanisms and uncover its clinical features.

Design of the phase 3 MAESTRO clinical program to evaluate resmetirom for the treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis

BACKGROUND

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a progressive form of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) associated with steatosis, hepatocellular injury, inflammation and fibrosis. In a Phase 2 trial in adults with NASH (NCT02912260), resmetirom, an orally administered, liver-targeted thyroid hormone receptor-β selective agonist, significantly reduced hepatic fat (via imaging) and resolved NASH without worsening fibrosis (via liver biopsy) in a significant number of patients compared with placebo.

AIMS

To present the design of the Phase 3 MAESTRO clinical programme evaluating resmetirom for treatment of NASH (MAESTRO-NAFLD-1 [NCT04197479], MAESTRO-NAFLD-OLE [NCT04951219], MAESTRO-NASH [NCT03900429], MAESTRO-NASH-OUTCOMES [NCT05500222]).

METHODS

MAESTRO-NASH is a pivotal serial biopsy trial in up to 2000 adults with biopsy-confirmed at-risk NASH. Patients are randomised to a once-daily oral placebo, 80 mg resmetirom, or 100 mg resmetirom. Liver biopsies are conducted at screening, week 52 and month 54. MAESTRO-NAFLD-1 is a 52-week safety trial in ~1400 adults with NAFLD/presumed NASH (based on non-invasive testing); ~700 patients from MAESTRO-NAFLD-1 are enrolled in MAESTRO-NAFLD-OLE, a 52-week active treatment extension to further evaluate safety. MAESTRO-NASH-OUTCOMES is enrolling 700 adults with well-compensated NASH cirrhosis to evaluate the potential for resmetirom to slow progression to hepatic decompensation events. Non-invasive tests (biomarkers, imaging) are assessed longitudinally throughout, in addition to validated patient-reported outcomes.

CONCLUSION

The MAESTRO clinical programme was designed in conjunction with regulatory authorities to support approval of resmetirom for treatment of NASH. The surrogate endpoints, based on week 52 liver biopsy, serum biomarkers and imaging, are confirmed by long-term clinical liver-related outcomes in MAESTRO-NASH (month 54) and MAESTRO-NASH-OUTCOMES (time to event).

4. Comprehensive Medical Evaluation and Assessment of Comorbidities: Standards of Care in Diabetes-2024

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) "Standards of Care in Diabetes" includes the ADA's current clinical practice recommendations and is intended to provide the components of diabetes care, general treatment goals and guidelines, and tools to evaluate quality of care. Members of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, an interprofessional expert committee, are responsible for updating the Standards of Care annually, or more frequently as warranted. For a detailed description of ADA standards, statements, and reports, as well as the evidence-grading system for ADA's clinical practice recommendations and a full list of Professional Practice Committee members, please refer to Introduction and Methodology. Readers who wish to comment on the Standards of Care are invited to do so at professional.diabetes.org/SOC.

The changing epidemiology of adult liver transplantation in the United States in 2013-2022: The dominance of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and alcohol-associated liver disease

BACKGROUND

The high prevalence of obesity in the United States drives the burden of NASH, recently renamed as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). We assessed the most recent trends in liver transplantation in the United States.

METHODS

The Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (SRTR 2013-2022) was used to select adult (18 years or above) candidates who underwent liver transplant.

RESULTS

There were 116,292 candidates who underwent liver transplant with known etiology of chronic liver disease. In candidates without HCC, the most common etiology was alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), increasing from 23% (2013) to 48% (2022), followed by NASH/MASH, which increased from 19% to 27%; the rates of viral hepatitis decreased (chronic hepatitis C: 28%-4%; chronic hepatitis B: 1.8%-1.1%) (all trend p<0.01). The proportion of HCC decreased from 25% (2013-2016) to 17% (2021-2022). Among HCC cohort, the proportion of chronic hepatitis C decreased from 60% (2013) to 27% (2022), NASH/MASH increased from 10% to 31%, alcohol-associated liver disease increased from 9% to 24% (trend p<0.0001), and chronic hepatitis B remained stable between 5% and 7% (trend p=0.62). The rapid increase in the proportion of NASH/MASH in HCC continued during the most recent study years [20% (2018), 28% (2020), 31% (2022)]; the trend remained significant after adjustment for age, sex, ethnicity, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Liver transplant etiologies in the United States have changed over the last decade. Alcohol-associated liver disease and NASH/MASH remain the 2 most common indications for transplantation among those without HCC, and NASH/MASH is the most common in patients with HCC.

Utility of pathologist panels for achieving consensus in NASH histologic scoring in clinical trials: Data from a phase 3 study

BACKGROUND

Liver histopathologic assessment is the accepted surrogate endpoint in NASH trials; however, the scoring of NASH Clinical Research Network (CRN) histologic parameters is limited by intraobserver and interobserver variability. We designed a consensus panel approach to minimize variability when using this scoring system. We assessed agreement between readers, estimated linear weighted kappas between 2 panels, compared them with published pairwise kappa estimates, and addressed how agreement or disagreement might impact the precision and validity of the surrogate efficacy endpoint in NASH trials.

METHODS

Two panels, each comprising 3 liver fellowship-trained pathologists who underwent NASH histology training, independently evaluated scanned whole slide images, scoring fibrosis, inflammation, hepatocyte ballooning, and steatosis from baseline and month 18 biopsies for 100 patients from the precirrhotic NASH study REGENERATE. The consensus score for each parameter was defined as agreement by ≥2 pathologists. If consensus was not reached, all 3 pathologists read the slide jointly to achieve a consensus score.

RESULTS

Between the 2 panels, the consensus was 97%-99% for steatosis, 91%-93% for fibrosis, 88%-92% for hepatocyte ballooning, and 84%-91% for inflammation. Linear weighted kappa scores between panels were similar to published NASH CRN values.

CONCLUSIONS

A panel of 3 trained pathologists independently scoring 4 NASH CRN histology parameters produced high consensus rates. Interpanel kappa values were comparable to NASH CRN metrics, supporting the accuracy and reproducibility of this method. The high concordance for fibrosis scoring was reassuring, as fibrosis is predictive of liver-specific outcomes and all-cause mortality.

Association of physical activity and fine motor performance in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus and/or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND

Fine motor performance may serve as an early warning sign for reduced cognitive function. Physical activity can help preserve cognitive function; however, the relationship between fine motor performance and physical activity is not well understood. Therefore, this study examined the relationship between fine motor performance and physical activity in individuals at risk for developing cognitive impairment (those with diabetes and/or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Individuals aged 25-69 with and without diabetes and NAFLD were enrolled. For this cross-sectional study, all participants completed the Human Activity Profile and fine motor performance tasks (Grooved Pegboard Test and Trail Making Test).

RESULTS

There were 93 participants in the study (NAFLD only (n = 29); diabetes + NAFLD (n = 34), controls (n = 30)). Individuals with both diabetes and NAFLD were less physically active and performed slower on the fine motor performance task. A statistically significant correlation was found between physical activity and motor speed among those with NAFLD only (r = 0.436, p<.05), which remained statistically significant after controlling for body mass index (r = 0.385; p<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that those with diabetes + NAFLD have lower levels of physical activity and slower fine motor performance. The relationship between physical activity and fine motor performance was only statistically significant in the group of individuals with NAFLD only. Future research needs to explore the mechanisms that impact fine motor performance and physical activity in individuals at risk for mild cognitive impairment. Individuals with diabetes and/or NAFLD should be identified, advised and encouraged to engage in physical activity.Key MessagesThose with NAFLD and T2DM have lower levels of physical activity and slower fine motor performance compared to controls and those with NAFLD only.Future research needs to explore the mechanisms that impact fine motor performance and physical activity in those with T2DM with or without NAFLD.Individuals with impaired fine motor performance should be identified and encouraged to engage in physical activity.

Impact of Type 2 Diabetes on the Outcomes of Solid Organ Transplantations in the U.S.: Data From a National Registry

OBJECTIVE

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a major driver of chronic diseases around the globe. The aim was to assess the impact of T2D on the outcomes of solid organ transplantations.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients from 2006 to 2021 to collect data for all patients age ≥18 years who received a lung, heart, liver, or kidney transplant in the U.S.

RESULTS

We included 462,692 solid organ transplant recipients: 31,503 lung, 38,004 heart, 106,639 liver, and 286,440 kidney transplantations. The prevalence of pretransplantation T2D was 15% in lung, 26% in heart, 25% in liver, and 30% in kidney transplant recipients, increasing over time. Posttransplantation mortality was significantly higher among transplant recipients with T2D versus those without T2D (lung 32.1% vs. 29.3% [3 years], 46.4% vs. 42.6% [5 years]; P < 0.01; heart 11.2% vs. 9.1% [1 year], 24.4% vs. 20.6% [5 years]; P < 0.0001; liver 10.6% vs. 8.9% [1 year], 26.2% vs. 22.0% [5 years]; P < 0.0001; kidney 5.3% vs. 2.5% [1 year], 20.8% vs. 10.1% [5 years]; P < 0.0001). Independent association of pretransplantation T2D with higher posttransplantation mortality was significant after adjustment for clinicodemographic confounders (adjusted hazard ratio in lung transplant recipients 1.08 [95% CI 1.03-1.13]; heart 1.26 [1.20-1.32]; liver 1.25 [1.21-1.28]; kidney 1.65 [1.62-1.68]; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of T2D in solid organ transplantation candidates is increasing. In all solid organ transplantations, pretransplantation T2D was independently associated with higher posttransplantation mortality, most profoundly in kidney transplantations.

Integrating social nutrition principles into the treatment of steatotic liver disease

Ivancovsky-Wajcman et al. outline the need for a holistic preventive hepatology approach, involving social nutrition and social prescribing, to address the public health threat of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). They argue that this will facilitate individuals’ engagement in behavioural modifications to treat MASLD.

Results from a new efficacy and safety analysis of the REGENERATE trial of obeticholic acid for treatment of pre-cirrhotic fibrosis due to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Obeticholic acid (OCA) is a first-in-class farnesoid X receptor agonist and antifibrotic agent in development for the treatment of pre-cirrhotic liver fibrosis due to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We aimed to validate the original 18-month liver biopsy analysis from the phase III REGENERATE trial of OCA for the treatment of NASH with a consensus panel analysis, provide additional histology data in a larger population, and evaluate safety from >8,000 total patient-years' exposure with nearly 1,000 participants receiving study drug for >4 years.

METHODS

Digitized whole-slide images were evaluated independently by panels of three pathologists using the NASH Clinical Research Network scoring system. Primary endpoints were (1) ≥1 stage improvement in fibrosis with no worsening of NASH or (2) NASH resolution with no worsening of fibrosis. Safety was assessed by laboratory values and adverse events.

RESULTS

Prespecified efficacy analyses included 931 participants. The proportion of participants achieving a ≥1 stage improvement in fibrosis with no worsening of NASH was 22.4% for OCA 25 mg vs. 9.6% for placebo (p <0.0001). More participants receiving OCA 25 mg vs. placebo achieved NASH resolution with no worsening of fibrosis (6.5% vs. 3.5%, respectively; p = 0.093). Histology data in a larger population of 1,607 participants supported these results. Safety data included 2,477 participants. The incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), serious TEAEs, and deaths was not substantively different across treatment groups. Pruritus was the most common TEAE. Rates of adjudicated hepatic, renal, and cardiovascular events were low and similar across treatment groups.

CONCLUSIONS

These results confirm the antifibrotic effect of OCA 25 mg. OCA was generally well tolerated over long-term dosing. These data support a positive benefit:risk profile in patients with pre-cirrhotic liver fibrosis due to NASH.

IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS

Patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) often have liver scarring (fibrosis), which causes an increased risk of liver-related illness and death. Preventing progression of fibrosis to cirrhosis or reversing fibrosis are the main goals of drug development for NASH. In this clinical trial of obeticholic acid (OCA) in patients with NASH (REGENERATE), we reaffirmed our previous results demonstrating that OCA was superior to placebo in improving fibrosis using a more rigorous consensus panel analysis of liver biopsies taken at month 18. We also showed that OCA treatment resulted in dose-dependent reductions of serum liver biochemistries and liver stiffness measurements compared with placebo, even in participants in whom histologic fibrosis did not change at 18 months, providing evidence that the benefit of OCA extends beyond what is captured by the ordinal NASH CRN scoring system. OCA was well tolerated with a favorable safety profile supporting a positive benefit: risk profile in patients with pre-cirrhotic liver fibrosis due to NASH.

Lifestyle interventions in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a dynamic chronic liver disease that develops in close association with metabolic irregularities. Between 2016 and 2019, the global prevalence among adults was reported as 38% and among children and adolescents it was about 10%. NAFLD can be progressive and is associated with increased mortality from cardiovascular disease, extrahepatic cancers and liver complications. Despite these numerous adverse outcomes, no pharmacological treatments currently exist to treat nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, the progressive form of NAFLD. Therefore, the main treatment is the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle for both children and adults, which includes a diet rich in fruits, nuts, seeds, whole grains, fish and chicken and avoiding overconsumption of ultra-processed food, red meat, sugar-sweetened beverages and foods cooked at high heat. Physical activity at a level where one can talk but not sing is also recommended, including leisure-time activities and structured exercise. Avoidance of smoking and alcohol is also recommended. Policy-makers, community and school leaders need to work together to make their environments healthy by developing walkable and safe spaces with food stores stocked with culturally appropriate and healthy food items at affordable prices as well as providing age-appropriate and safe play areas in both schools and neighbourhoods.

Identification of High-Risk Patients With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Endocrinology Clinics

The twin epidemics of obesity and type 2 diabetes continue to increase worldwide, so does the associated chronic liver disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Although NAFLD has been thought of as a benign liver disease, current evidence suggests that it is a complex liver disease that, for approximately 20% of patients, can progress to fibrosis, cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver transplant, and death. It is important to note that, given NAFLD's association with metabolic syndrome, the number one cause of death among those with NAFLD is related to cardiovascular diseases. In addition, NAFLD is associated with impaired patient-reported outcomes and a significant economic burden. As such, efforts are now aimed at using noninvasive tests (NITs) to identify patients with NAFLD and those who are at risk of liver disease progression and adverse outcomes in endocrinology practices whereby appropriate risk stratification and referrals can be undertaken. In this review, we discuss the most common NITs used and provide a simple clinically relevant algorithm using these NITs to identify patients with NAFLD who are at risk of adverse outcomes and subsequent clinical management and referral.

The burden of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is rapidly growing in every region of the world from 1990 to 2019

BACKGROUND

The latest meta-analyses suggest NAFLD is increasing globally. Its limitations may preclude accurate estimates. We evaluated the global NAFLD burden and its' trends in prevalence and NAFLD liver-related mortality (LRM) by sex, age, region, and country over the past 3 decades using data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 study.

METHODS

Crude and age-standardized NAFLD prevalence and NAFLD-LRM rates were obtained for all-age individuals with NAFLD from 204 countries/territories between 1990 and 2019. Joinpoint trend analysis assessed time trends. Weighted average of the annual percent change (APC) over the period 1990-2019 and 2010-2019 were reported.

RESULTS

All-age (children and adults) crude global NAFLD prevalence increased:10.5% (561 million)-16.0% (1,236 million); an APC increase: + 1.47% (95% CI, 1.44%, 1.50%). Among adults (+20 y), crude NAFLD prevalence increased (1990: 17.6%, 2019:23.4%; APC: + 1.00%, 95% CI: 0.97%, 1.02%). In all-age groups, the crude NAFLD-LRM rate (per 100,000) increased (1990: 1.75%, 2019: 2.18%; APC: + 0.77% (95% CI, 0.70%, 0.84%). By Joinpoint analysis, from 2010 to 2019, worsening all-age trends in NAFLD prevalence and LRM were observed among 202 and 167 countries, respectively. In 2019, there were 1.24 billion NAFLD prevalent cases and 168,969 associated deaths; Asia regions accounted for 57.2% of all-age prevalent cases and 46.2% of all-age NAFLD-LRM. The highest all-age crude NAFLD prevalence rate was the Middle East and North Africa (LRM 26.5%); the highest all-age crude NAFLD-LRM rate was Central Latin America (5.90 per 100,000).

CONCLUSIONS

NAFLD is increasing globally in all-age groups-over 80% of countries experienced an increase in NAFLD and NAFLD-LRM. These data have important policy implications for affected countries and for global health.

Sarcopenia Among Patients With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) Is Associated With Advanced Fibrosis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and sarcopenia can be associated with advanced liver disease. Our aim was to assess the association between sarcopenia and the risk of fibrosis among patients with NAFLD.

METHODS

We used the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2017-2018). NAFLD was defined by transient elastography without other causes of liver disease or excessive alcohol use. Significant fibrosis (SF) and advanced fibrosis (AF) were defined by liver stiffness greater than 8.0 kPa and greater than 13.1 kPa, respectively. Sarcopenia was defined using the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health definition.

RESULTS

Of the total cohort (N = 2422), 18.9% had sarcopenia, 9.8% had obese sarcopenia, 43.6% had NAFLD, 7.0% had SF, and 2.0% had AF. Moreover, 50.1% had neither sarcopenia nor NAFLD, 6.3% had sarcopenia without NAFLD, 31.1% had NAFLD without sarcopenia, and 12.5% had NAFLD with sarcopenia. Compared with individuals without NAFLD or sarcopenia, individuals with sarcopenic NAFLD had higher rates of SF (18.3% vs 3.2%) and AF (7.1% vs 0.2%). In the absence of sarcopenia, compared with individuals without NAFLD, individuals with NAFLD have a significantly increased risk of SF (odds ratio, 2.18; 95% CI, 0.92-5.19). In the presence of sarcopenia, NAFLD was associated with an increased risk of SF (odds ratio, 11.27; 95% CI, 2.79-45.56). This increase was independent of metabolic components. The proportion of SF that is attributable to the interaction of NAFLD and sarcopenia was 55% (attributable proportion, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.36-0.74). Increased leisure time physical activity was associated with a lower risk of sarcopenia.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with sarcopenic NAFLD are at risk for SF and AF. Increased physical activity and a healthy diet targeted to improve sarcopenic NAFLD could reduce the risk of significant fibrosis.

Severe, Persistent, Disruptive Fatigue Post-SARS-CoV-2 Disproportionately Affects Young Women

Introduction

Post-acute SARS-CoV-2 (PASC) symptoms are often persistent, disruptive, and difficult to treat effectively. Fatigue is often among the most frequently reported symptoms and may indicate a more challenging road to recovery.

Purpose

To describe the natural history, symptomology, and risk profile of long-term post-acute SARS-CoV-2.

Patients and Methods

Participants treated for SARS-CoV-2 within a large, community health system in the US were enrolled prospectively in a longitudinal, observational PASC study examining participants at enrollment and 6 months. Medical history, symptom reporting, validated measures of cognition, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs), were performed for all participants and repeated during study follow-up visits.

Results

A total of 323 participants completed baseline evaluations. Sixty one participants indicated clinically significant fatigue (23.1% at baseline); a representative sample of 141 enrollees also completed a baseline Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-F) in-depth fatigue reporting questionnaire, 37 had severe fatigue. The severely fatigued (FACIT-F ≤29.7) were significantly younger, female, had more anxiety and depression, had a higher resting heart rate, reported more sick days, and were less physically active post-COVID. They were more likely to have a diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (13.5% vs 2.9%) but less likely to have a history of cancer (8.1% vs 23.1). Participants who were severely fatigued reported health, diet, weight, and sleep were worse than those not severely fatigued post-COVID (p = 0.02 to 0.0002). Fatigue was significantly correlated with impairment of all PROs administered after COVID-19 infection.

Conclusion

Fatigue is a common symptom post-COVID-19 infection and is associated with lower reported well-being and function. Those with severe fatigue tended to be younger and female and have a past medical history of anxiety, depression, kidney disease, and more sedentary lifestyles.

A global research priority agenda to advance public health responses to fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND & AIMS

An estimated 38% of adults worldwide have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). From individual impacts to widespread public health and economic consequences, the implications of this disease are profound. This study aimed to develop an aligned, prioritised fatty liver disease research agenda for the global health community.

METHODS

Nine co-chairs drafted initial research priorities, subsequently reviewed by 40 core authors and debated during a three-day in-person meeting. Following a Delphi methodology, over two rounds, a large panel (R1 n = 344, R2 n = 288) reviewed the priorities, via Qualtrics XM, indicating agreement using a four-point Likert-scale and providing written feedback. The core group revised the draft priorities between rounds. In R2, panellists also ranked the priorities within six domains: epidemiology, models of care, treatment and care, education and awareness, patient and community perspectives, and leadership and public health policy.

RESULTS

The consensus-built fatty liver disease research agenda encompasses 28 priorities. The mean percentage of 'agree' responses increased from 78.3 in R1 to 81.1 in R2. Five priorities received unanimous combined agreement ('agree' + 'somewhat agree'); the remaining 23 priorities had >90% combined agreement. While all but one of the priorities exhibited at least a super-majority of agreement (>66.7% 'agree'), 13 priorities had <80% 'agree', with greater reliance on 'somewhat agree' to achieve >90% combined agreement.

CONCLUSIONS

Adopting this multidisciplinary consensus-built research priorities agenda can deliver a step-change in addressing fatty liver disease, mitigating against its individual and societal harms and proactively altering its natural history through prevention, identification, treatment, and care. This agenda should catalyse the global health community's efforts to advance and accelerate responses to this widespread and fast-growing public health threat.

IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS

An estimated 38% of adults and 13% of children and adolescents worldwide have fatty liver disease, making it the most prevalent liver disease in history. Despite substantial scientific progress in the past three decades, the burden continues to grow, with an urgent need to advance understanding of how to prevent, manage, and treat the disease. Through a global consensus process, a multidisciplinary group agreed on 28 research priorities covering a broad range of themes, from disease burden, treatment, and health system responses to awareness and policy. The findings have relevance for clinical and non-clinical researchers as well as funders working on fatty liver disease and non-communicable diseases more broadly, setting out a prioritised, ranked research agenda for turning the tide on this fast-growing public health threat.

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Is Independently Associated With Higher All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing globally. We assessed independent associations of NAFLD with all-cause and cause-specific mortality in older community-dwelling adults in the United States.

METHODS

Data from the Rancho Bernardo Study cohort, who participated in the research from 1992 to 1996 with mortality data (followed up to July 2019), were analyzed. NAFLD was determined by the improved Fatty Liver Index for the multiethnic US population in the absence of secondary causes of liver disease. Hazard ratios (HRs), 95% CIs, and population-attributable fractions of risk factors on mortality were calculated. Competing-risk analyses of cause-specific mortality were performed.

RESULTS

Of the 1523 eligible participants (mean age, 71.8 y; 39.9% male; 99.3% non-Hispanic White; and 10.7% obese), 404 (26.4%) had NAFLD. During 23,311 person-years of follow-up evaluation (mean, 15.22 y; SD, 8.41 y), among NAFLD and non-NAFLD, there were 296 and 717 deaths from all causes, 113 and 263 cardiac deaths, 62 and 112 cancer deaths, and 6 and 2 liver deaths, respectively. NAFLD had a 26% higher all-cause mortality (HR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.08-1.47) and a 33% (HR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.04-1.70) and 55% (HR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.11-2.15) higher cardiac and cancer mortality, respectively, than non-NAFLD. Population-attributable fractions showed 13.9% of deaths, 6.2% of cardiac deaths, and 12.1% of cancer deaths were attributable to NAFLD after adjustments of risk factors (sedentary lifestyle, obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes).

CONCLUSIONS

NAFLD is associated independently with all-cause, cardiac, and cancer mortality. Efforts must continue to raise awareness about NAFLD and develop care pathways and public health efforts to reduce NAFLD burden and associated mortality.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease mortality may not be decreasing: A need for careful interpretation of GBD 2019 estimates of liver deaths

The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) data provide information on population health; however, careful understanding of the estimation methods and limitations of these data is critical. Herein, Paik et al. discuss the recent study by Chew and colleagues in the context of these limitations, highlighting how a worsening trend in NAFLD-liver mortality may have been underestimated in the analysis.

Healthcare and socioeconomic costs of NAFLD: A global framework to navigate the uncertainties

Left unaddressed, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) will continue to have substantial health, economic and social implications. To address the challenge, a paradigm shift is needed in the way NAFLD is conceptualised. Concerted, collaborative action across medical specialities, industry sectors and governments will be vital in tackling this public health threat. To drive this change, in this review, we present data on the current global healthcare and socioeconomic costs of NAFLD and highlight priority actions. The estimated healthcare costs of patients with NAFLD are nearly twice as high as their age-matched counterparts without the disease and are highest in those with advanced fibrosis and end-stage liver disease. NAFLD is accountable for the highest increase in DALYs (disability-adjusted life years) among all liver diseases globally. NAFLD and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)-specific drug therapies are not yet available and there is considerable uncertainty regarding cost, optimal length of treatment, and their impact on liver-related outcomes and mortality. Among the currently available bariatric procedures, sleeve gastrectomy is reported to be the most cost-effective for NASH resolution. Gastric bypass remains very expensive, while data on bariatric endoscopy are limited. Lastly, we propose a global NAFLD/NASH investment framework to guide the development of achievable yet ambitious country-specific targets and strategic actions to optimise resource allocation and reduce the prevalence of NAFLD and NASH. Its focus on high-level inputs will be critical to enabling a political and financial environment that supports clinical-level implementation of NAFLD prevention, treatment and care efforts, across all settings.

The Global Burden of Liver Disease

Chronic liver disease (CLD) and its associated complications (cirrhosis and liver cancer) cause significant mortality, morbidity, and economic burden. Published data from the World Health Organization and/or the Global Burden of Disease show that the burden of CLD is large and increasing, primarily owing to the increasing burden of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and alcohol-related liver disease (ALD). Middle Eastern, Northern African, and Asian regions of the globe are most affected by hepatitis B and hepatitis C virus. Furthermore, Middle Eastern and North African regions also are affected by nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and Eastern European, West African, and Central Asian regions are affected by ALD. In this context, the rate of increase for cirrhosis is highest in the Middle East, as well as in middle high and high sociodemographic index (SDI) regions. On the other hand, the highest SDI countries are experiencing increasing rates of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Assessing HCC burden based on country and etiology shows that China, Korea, India, Japan, and Thailand have the highest hepatitis B virus-related HCC cases, while China, Japan, and the United States have the highest hepatitis C virus-related HCC cases. Additionally, the United States has the highest ALD-related HCC cases, while India, the United States, and Thailand have the highest nonalcoholic steatohepatitis-related HCC cases. Although the burden of CLD is increasing globally, regions of the world are impacted differently as a result of a number of sociodemographic factors.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and associated mortality in individuals with type 2 diabetes, pre-diabetes, metabolically unhealthy, and metabolically healthy individuals in the United States

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is high among subjects with type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, the prevalence and outcomes of NAFLD among individuals with pre-diabetes (PreD) and metabolically healthy and metabolically unhealthy individuals without T2D are not known. Our aim was to assess prevalence and mortality of NAFLD among these four groups.

METHODS

The Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) III (1988-1994) with mortality data (follow up to 2019) via linkage to the National Death Index was utilized. NAFLD was defined by ultrasound and absence of other liver diseases and excess alcohol use. Pre-D was defined as fasting plasma glucose values of 100-125 mg/dL and/or HbA1c level between 5.7 %-6.4 % in the absence of established diagnosis of T2D. Metabolically healthy (MH) was defined if all of the following criteria were absent: waist circumference of ≥102 cm (men) or ≥ 88 cm (women) or BMI of ≥30; blood pressure (BP) ≥ 130/85 mmHg or using BP-lowering medication; triglyceride level ≥ 150 mg/dL or using lipid-lowering medication; lipoprotein cholesterol level of <40 mg/dL (men) or < 50 mg/dL (women); homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) score ≥ 2.5; C-reactive protein (CRP) level of >2 mg/L; Pre-D and T2D. Metabolically unhealthy (MU) individuals were defined as the presence of any component of metabolic syndrome but not having Pre-D and T2D. Competing risk analyses of cause-specific mortality were performed.

FINDINGS

11,231 adults (20-74y) were included: mean age 43.4 years; 43.9 % male; 75.4 % white, 10.8 % Black, and 5.4 % Mexican American, 18.9 % NAFLD, 7.8 % T2D; 24.7 % PreD; 44.3 % MU; and 23.3 % in MH individuals. In multivariable adjusted logistic model, as compared to MH individuals, the highest risk of having NAFLD were in T2D individuals (Odd Ratio [OR] = 10.88 [95 % confidence interval: 7.33-16.16]), followed by Pre-D (OR = 4.19 [3.02-5.81]), and MU (OR = 3.36 [2.39-4.71]). During a median follow up of 26.7 years (21.2-28.7 years), 3982 died. NAFLD subjects had significantly higher age-adjusted mortality than non-NAFLD (32.7 % vs. 28.7 %, p < .001). Among subjects with NAFLD, the highest age-standardized cumulative mortality was observed among those with T2D (41.3 %), followed by with Pre-D (35.1 %), MU subjects (30.0 %), and MH subjects (21.9 %) (pairwise p-values<.04 vs. ND with MH). Multivariable adjusted cox models showed that NAFLD with T2D had a higher risk of all-causes and cardiac-specific deaths (Hazard Ratio [HR] = 4.71 [2.23-9.96] and HR = 20.01 [3.00-133.61]), followed by NAFLD with Pre-D (HR = 2.91 [1.41-6.02] and HR = 10.35 [1.57-68.08]) and metabolically unhealthy NAFLD (HR = 2.59 [1.26-5.33] and HR = 6.74 [0.99-46.03]) compared to metabolically healthy NAFLD. In addition to older age, independent predictors of mortality among NAFLD with T2D included high CRP, CVD, CKD, high FIB-4, and active smoking. Similarly, among NAFLD with PreD, high CRP, CKD, CVD, hypertension, and active smoking were associated with mortality. Finally, CVD and active smoking were predictors of mortality among metabolically unhealthy NAFLD, and active smoking was the only mortality risk among metabolically healthy NAFLD subjects.

INTERPRETATION

Metabolic abnormality impacts both prevalence and outcomes of subjects with NAFLD.

The combination of the enhanced liver fibrosis and FIB-4 scores to determine significant fibrosis in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND

The presence of fibrosis in NAFLD is the most significant risk factor for adverse outcomes. We determined the cutoff scores of two non-invasive te sts (NITs) to rule in and rule out significant fibrosis among NAFLD patients.

METHODS

Clinical data and liver biopsies were used for NAFLD patients included in this analysis (2001-2020). The enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF) and FIB-4 NITs were calculated. Liver biopsies were read by a single hematopathologist and scored by the NASH CRN criteria. Significant fibrosis was defined as stage F2-F4.

RESULTS

There were 463 NAFLD patients included: 48 ± 13 years old, 31% male, 35% type 2 diabetes; 39% had significant fibrosis; mean ELF score was 9.0 ± 1.2, mean FIB-4 score was 1.22 ± 1.05. Patients with significant fibrosis were older, more commonly male, had lower BMI but more components of metabolic syndrome, higher ELF and FIB-4 (p < 0.0001). The performance of the two NITs in identifying significant fibrosis was: AUC (95% CI) = 0.78 (0.74-0.82) for ELF, 0.79 (0.75-0.83) for FIB-4. The combination of ELF score ≥9.8 and FIB-4 ≥ 1.96 returned a positive predictive value of 95% which can reliably rule in significant fibrosis (sensitivity 22%, specificity >99%), while an ELF score ≤7.7 or FIB-4 ≤ 0.30 had a negative predictive value of 95% ruling out significant fibrosis (sensitivity 98%, specificity 22%).

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of ELF and FIB-4 may provide practitioners with easily obtained information to risk stratify patients with NAFLD who could be referred to specialists or for enrollment in clinical trials.

Noninvasive Tests Used in Risk Stratification of Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

As the prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes increases around the world, the prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has grown proportionately. Although most patients with NAFLD do not experience progressive liver disease, about 15% to 20% of those with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis can and do progress. Because liver biopsy's role in NAFLD has become increasingly limited, efforts have been undertaken to develop non-invasive tests (NITs) to help identify patients at high risk of progression. The following article discusses the NITs that are available to determine the presence of NAFLD as well as high-risk NAFLD.

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Disease Burden and Disease Awareness

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most common chronic liver disease worldwide and has been implying an unprecedented burden to health care systems. The prevalence of NAFLD has exceeded 30% in developed countries. Considering the asymptomatic nature of undiagnosed NAFLD, high suspicion and noninvasive diagnosis have utmost importance especially in primary care level. At this point, patient and provider awareness should be optimal for early diagnosis and risk stratification for patients at risk of progression.

Regular Exercise Is Associated With Low Fatigue Levels and Good Functional Outcomes After COVID-19: A Prospective Observational Study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study is to identify the impact of postacute SARS-CoV-2 infection on patient outcomes.

DESIGN

This is a prospective, repeated measure, observational study of consented adults with positive SARS-CoV-2 quantitative polymerase chain reaction or antigen test more than 28 days after infection. Only data from the initial study visit are reported, including disease history, symptoms checklist, patient questionnaires, cognitive tests, social/medical histories, vitals, grip strength, and 2-min walk distance.

RESULTS

Two hundred eighteen patients were studied: 100 hospitalized (57.3 ± 15.4 yrs, 62% male, body mass index: 31.3 ± 8.0) and 118 nonhospitalized (46.2 ± 14.6 yrs, 31% male, body mass index: 29.7 ± 7.5). Post-COVID patients reported mean 1.76 symptoms; ≥15% reported fatigue, memory loss, and shortness of breath. Grip strength was 14% lower than norms ( P < 0.0001). Fatigue (Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue), mood (Patient Health Questionnaire), and well-being (EuroQol 5 Dimension 5 Level) scores were lower than the population norms ( P < 0.05). Hospitalized versus nonhospitalized post-COVID patients performed worse on cognitive assessments (processing speed test-Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Fourth Edition Symbol Search) and reported less regular exercise (≥30 mins ≥3× per week; P < 0.05). In addition, 30% had severe fatigue (by the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue); those patients reported less exercise ( P < 0.05). In multivariate models, lack of exercise was independently associated with multiple post-COVID-19 impairments.

CONCLUSIONS

Low levels of exercise are an independent risk factor for post-COVID sequelae. Patients who report less exercise have low grip strength, higher levels of fatigue, memory loss, shortness of breath, depression, and poorer quality of life.

Economic Burden and Patient-Reported Outcomes of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

In addition to adverse clinical outcomes such as liver-related morbidity and mortality, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with a substantial public health and economic burden and could also potentially impair health-related quality of life and other patient-reported outcomes. The disease also affects multiple aspects of patients' quality of life which are the most pronounced in physical health-related and fatigue domains as well as work productivity, and get more severe in patients with advanced liver disease or with non-hepatic comorbidities. The economic burden of NAFLD is substantial and is increasing, with the highest costs in those with advanced disease.

How to Identify Advanced Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in the Primary Care Setting

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects 30 to 40% of the population globally and is increasingly considered the most common liver disease. Patients with type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases are at especially increased risk for NAFLD. Although most patients with NAFLD do not have progressive liver disease, some patients progress to cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver mortality. Given the sheer number of patients with NAFLD, the burden of disease is enormous. Despite this large and increasing burden, identification of NAFLD patients at risk for progressive liver disease in the primary care and diabetology practice settings remains highly suboptimal. In this review, our aim is to summarize a stepwise approach to risk stratify patients with NAFLD which should help practitioners in their management of patients with NAFLD.

The Growing Economic and Clinical Burden of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) in the United States

Background

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a cause of chronic liver disease.

Aim

Model the burden of NASH in the United States according to obesity.

Methods

The discrete-time Markov model comprised adult NASH subjects moving through 9 health states and 3 absorbing death states (liver, cardiac, and other deaths) with 1-year cycles and a 20-year horizon. Given that reliable natural history data for NASH are not available, transition probabilities were estimated from the literature and population-based data. These rates were disaggregated to determine age-obesity group rates by applying estimated age-obesity patterns. The model considers 2019 prevalent NASH cases and new incident NASH cases (2020-2039), assuming that recent trends will continue. Annual per-patient costs by health state were based on published data. Costs were standardized to 2019 US dollars and inflated by 3% annually.

Results

NASH cases in the United States are forecasted to increase by +82.6%, from 11.61 million (2020) to 19.53 million (2039). During the same period, cases of advanced liver disease increased +77.9%, from 1.51 million to 2.67 million, while its proportion remained stable (13.46%-13.05%). Similar patterns were observed in both obese and non-obese NASH. Among NASH, 18.71 million overall deaths, 6.72 million cardiac-specific deaths, and 1.71 million liver-specific deaths were observed by 2039. During this period, the projected cumulative direct healthcare costs were $1208.47 billion (obese NASH) and $453.88 billion (non-obese NASH). By 2039, the projected NASH attributable healthcare cost per patient increased from $3636 to $6968.

Conclusions

There is a substantial and growing clinical and economic burden of NASH in the United States.