Magnitude of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Western Perspective

Abstract

The incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is continuing to rise worldwide, and it is estimated that this disquieting trend will continue for another 10-15 years before prevalence begins to decrease. NAFLD is the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome. As obesity, diabetes, and other lifestyle-related diseases continue to rise, the spectrum of NAFLD, e.g., nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, liver fibrosis, liver cirrhosis, liverrelated morbidity, and mortality, will increase in parallel. Its widespread prevalence and associated economic burden have drawn significant attention, and a multitude of pharmaceutical companies are participating in active research trying to find a "cure". Unfortunately, as of now, no targeted treatment exists to treat this condition, and therefore, emphasis has been on its prevention. The current review focuses on the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, risk factors, and clinical outcomes of NAFLD in Western countries. It is important to understand the magnitude of NAFLD and its risk factors in Western countries where the prevalence of NAFLD has now reached epidemic proportions to identify the best strategy to prevent and possibly control this epidemic.

Clinical impact of sexual dimorphism in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)

“…The incidence and prevalence of NAFLD are increasing dramatically in either Western or Eastern countries, reaching epidemic proportions 8,9 . The main reason for this dramatic increasing trend in NAFLD and NASH is the global increasing prevalence of obesity described by the World Health Organization 10 .…”

“…The incidence and prevalence of NAFLD are increasing dramatically in either Western or Eastern countries, reaching epidemic proportions. 8,9 The main reason for this dramatic increasing trend in NAFLD and NASH is the global increasing prevalence of obesity described by the World Health Organization. 10 In longitudinal studies, mostly performed in Asia, the incidence of NAFLD ranges from 19 to 44.5/1000 person-years and is higher in males compared to females.…”

A New Score Unveils a High Prevalence of Mild Cognitive Impairment in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

“…NAFLD prevalence is increasing as a consequence of obesity, although many patients are lean. Its prevalence in the general population is estimated at 24%, the highest rates are reported from South America and the Middle East, followed by Asia, the USA, and Europe [3], and incidence is expected to continue rising in parallel with obesity, diabetes, and other lifestyle-related diseases [4].…”

Dietary Patterns and Components in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): What Key Messages Can Health Care Providers Offer?

“…NAFLD is the most common liver disorder worldwide [4]. Importantly, as recently reported, NASH is the second most common indication for being listed for liver transplant in the United States [5]. Most patients with NAFLD are either asymptomatic or experience non-specific symptoms, including fatigue and right upper quadrant abdominal discomfort.…”