BACKGROUND

Non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is emerging as an important public health problem across the globe and is associated with high risk for cardiovascular disease. NAFLD refers to wide spectrum of liver damage, ranging from steatosis to advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis. The aim is to study  the incidence of NAFLD and its association with age, BMI and Lipid profile.

METHODS

Patients refered from the Hepatology OPD with NAFLD from May 2015  to December 2015 were collected. Patients aged between 20-65 yrs with the following reports FBS, lipid profile, LFT (ALP),  USG reporting  fatty liver changes only were included.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Of the 50 patients referred to the nutrition department, 30 were recruited (n=30).  The mean age is 43.1+9.78y {> 45 years 64% (16)}, 67% (20) were males, mean BMI is 30 ± 5.7 , 20% (4) were with normal BMI and 80% (26) were overweight and obese. NAFLD was reported highest in younger adults 53.33% (16). Fatty liver grade I, II & III were 53.33% (16),  43.33% (13) & 3.33% (1) respectively. Chi-square test between fatty liver changes as per BMI was not significant (p 0.574). Sample with higher cholestrol: HDL ratio was 84% (26) and  elevated triglycerides was 60% (18). One-way ANOVA for TG as per BMI (p = 0.531). Deranged ALP was found in 16%  (5) and 23 % (7) had Diabetes. Summary of One-way ANOVA for Blood sugars as per BMI (p=.939). Functional bowel disorder was reported in 23% (7). All the  samples selected were sedentary workers. Macro nutrient intake showed 70-80% of Calories were coming from Carbohydrates. The intake of fiber  was below the recommendations.

CONCLUSION

Approximately 1 of  8 NAFLD patients coming to the tertiary liver center has normal BMI.    There is no significant influence of BMI on fatty liver and lipid profile. Rather than BMI visceral adiposity (measured as waist circumference),  is more lipolitically active than subcutaneous fat . Lifestyle modification aimed at weight loss and physical activity is vital in managing all patients with NAFLD irrespective of their underlying liver histology, which should also be evaluated after six months.