Unlocking the Links: How Demographics and Lifestyle Choices Affect MAFLD Incidence

The rise of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in the United States is a growing concern. According to a recent study published in the May 2025 issue of BMC Gastroenterology, researchers found that about one in three adults has this condition. That’s 3,562 out of nearly 10,000 participants.

Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) collected between 2009 and 2018, the study looked closely at various groups based on age, race, and lifestyle. It included 23,546 adults aged 20 and older, analyzing factors like body mass index (BMI), waist size, blood pressure, and lifestyle habits such as inactivity and sleep patterns.

The study revealed significant differences. For instance, 54% of Mexican Americans had MAFLD, while only 20.5% of Black participants were affected. Men were more at risk, with 39% diagnosed compared to 29.2% of women. The risk increased with age for everyone, except for White individuals.

Interestingly, the study found that depression rates were higher among those with MAFLD, though severe depression didn’t show a significant link. Factors like sleep duration and a sedentary lifestyle weren’t strongly related to MAFLD incidence, suggesting other lifestyle choices may play a role.

This highlights the need for targeted health interventions based on race and age. It’s also a reminder to pay attention to our lifestyle choices, as they can significantly impact health.

For more details, check the full study here.

Source link