Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in Obesity

Background and Objectives: Limited studies have been undertaken to characterize Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in the Indian population. The main objective of our study was to document the prevalence of NAFLD amongst a cohort of obese Indian patients and demonstrate its relationship with other components of the metabolic syndrome. Methods: A total of 60 adult obese patients were subjected to a detailed history, clinical exam, anthropometric study and laboratory workup. Focus was on liver function and components of the metabolic syndrome like blood pressure, glycemic status and lipid profile. Subjects enrolled were divided into two groups Group A (n=48). with NAFLD and Group B (n=12) without NAFLD. The two groups were then compared amongst themselves as well as with data from previous similar studies. Results: A comparison of the anthropometric measurements revealed a statistically significant difference between the Body mass index (BMI) and Waist Hip Ratio of the two groups and in the mean triglyceride values between the two groups. Although the mean bilirubin levels measured in the serum were not statistically different the mean levels of SGOT and SGPT in the two groups was found to be statistically significant. On the contrary no significant difference in the values of alkaline phosphatase and synthetic liver functions could be discerned. A statistically highly significant difference in the mean liver span is seen. Interpretation and Conclusions: NAFLD is common in Indian obese populations and is associated with significant differences in anthropometric, clinical, laboratory and ultrasonographic aspects as compared with obese individuals not affected with liver disease.