STEATOTIC LIVER DISEASE IN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN CHENNAI, INDIA
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Keywords
Steatotic liver disease (SLD), MASLD, Metabolic-dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease, Transient elastography (TE), Obesity, University students
Abstract
Introduction: Steatotic liver disease (SLD) is an umbrella term that represents unified terminology encompassing metabolic (MASLD, MASH), alcohol-related (MetALD, ALD) and overlapping aetiologies of steatosis, indicating the starting point of diagnosis being the feature of steatosis, regardless of aetiology. Recent advancements in understanding its pathophysiology have led to renaming of NAFLD to metabolic-dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). It is classified as a subcategory of SLD. Its prevalence is increasing in India, especially among young adults due to urbanization and lifestyle changes. This study aims to assess the prevalence and risk factors of SLD among university students in Chennai.
Materials & Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among university students in Chennai, India. Data on demographics, lifestyle, and dietary habits were collected via questionnaires. Liver stiffness (LSM) and steatosis (CAP) were assessed using transient elastography. Steatosis and fibrosis were diagnosed and graded based on CAP and LSM values.
Results: The study included 250 university students with a mean age of 24.3 ± 1.98 years, 52.4% of whom were female. Among participants, 40.8% were overweight, 6.8% obese, and the prevalence of SLD was 19.6%. Students with steatosis had higher BMI and low level of physical exercise. Significant positive correlations were found between CAP and LSM with BMI.
Conclusion: Our findings highlight a high prevalence of steatosis (19.6%) in healthy young individuals, emphasising the need for early diagnosis and targeted lifestyle interventions to address modifiable factors like higher BMI and low physical activity.
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Mitul D. Rudach
DM Postgraduate resident, Department of Hepatology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher education and research, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
Shanthi Vijayaraghavan
Professor and Head of department of Hepatology and Consultant Gastroenterologist, Sri Ramachandra Institute of higher education and research, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India