Prevalence and Risk Factors of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Central Region of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: A BSTRACT Background: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and the main demographic, lifestyle, and metabolic risk factors associated with its prevalence. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted on a representative sample of adults living in the Qassim area of Saudi Arabia. The participants were interviewed using structured questionnaires that elicited self-reported demographic data, lifestyle, and medical history. Results: The prevalence of NAFLD was strongly related to age, obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), dyslipidemia, and lifestyle. The NAFLD patients had a significantly higher mean age compared to non-NAFLD individuals (45.3 ± 10.2 vs. 39.6 ± 9.8 years, P = 0.002). Obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m 2 ) was an independent strong predictor of NAFLD, with an odds ratio (OR) of 4.23 (95% CI: 2.78–6.45, P < 0.001). Conclusion: A high prevalence of NAFLD in the population under study was detected, and features of metabolic syndrome and lifestyle factors were strongly accountable for the occurrence of the disease.
Author: Badr M. Aljarallah
Institution: Qassim University
Language: English
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $250
OpenAlex ID: W4409993238