Chronic liver disease (CLD) is a major contributor to global mortality and morbidity, with a 46% increase in CLD-related deaths between 1980 and 2010, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a significant driver of CLD mortality, closely linked to rising global rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. As obesity rates climb worldwide, so does the prevalence of NAFLD, currently affecting an estimated 25% of the global population.

NAFLD is also a major economic burden on healthcare systems due to its associated comorbidities, including cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and metabolic syndrome. Patients with NAFLD experience reduced quality of life and higher healthcare costs, with direct medical costs for NAFLD estimated at $62 billion annually in the U.S. alone. Lean NAFLD, affecting individuals with normal BMI, is another challenge, often linked to genetic factors and carrying similarly poor outcomes as obesity-related NAFLD. Given its rising prevalence and the associated health risks, global initiatives are needed to raise awareness and implement prevention strategies focusing on lifestyle changes to address this growing public health issue.

Reference: Younossi ZM. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease – A global public health perspective. J Hepatol. 2019 Mar;70(3):531-544. doi: 10.1016/j.jhep.2018.10.033. Epub 2018 Nov 9. PMID: 30414863.