Prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in Pakistan: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Abstract Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver condition globally and the leading cause of liver-related death and morbidity. The goal of this study was to collect current data in order to calculate the pooled prevalence of NAFLD in Pakistan. We conducted a comprehensive literature search on four electronic databases until March 2024 to find studies on the prevalence of NAFLD in Pakistan. Pooled prevalence estimates of NAFLD were obtained using random-effects meta-analytic models. The chi-square test was used to account for study heterogeneity, whereas the I2 statistic was used to assess inconsistency. The data were stratified by the general population (average risk) and individuals with metabolic diseases (high risk). Two reviewers thoroughly and independently screened, reviewed, and assessed all studies. In total, 468 studies were reviewed, and 34 were included. The pooled NAFLD prevalence in the general population was 29.82% (95% CI 21.39–39.01%; prediction interval: 2.98–68.92%) based on 13 studies. In individuals with metabolic disorders, the prevalence of NAFLD in patients with diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, was 58.47% (95% CI 54.23–62.64%; prediction interval: 38.16–77.40%), 74.08% (95% CI 60.50–85.70%), and 47.43% (95% CI 30.49–64.66%), respectively. There was no evidence of publication bias, although a statistically significant level of heterogeneity was seen among the studies (I 2 ranged from 57.5 to 98.69%). The findings of this study indicate a substantial prevalence of NAFLD in the population of Pakistan. The Pakistani government must formulate a comprehensive approach and plan aimed at augmenting awareness, control, prevention, and treatment of fatty liver disease. Prospero Registration no: CRD42022356607.

Keywords

• NAFLD
• Pakistan
• Systematic review
• Meta-analysis