Management of NAFLD in the Middle East

The global prevalence of NAFLD is estimated at approximately 25%. In a recent meta-analysis on the global epidemiology of NAFLD, Younossi et al. reported the prevalence to be highest (32%) in the Middle East, and is estimated to grow further with an increase in its risk factors such as obesity, metabolic syndrome...
PUBLISHED IN: World J Gastroenterol 2020

Commentary

The global prevalence of NAFLD is estimated at approximately 25%. In a recent meta-analysis on the global epidemiology of NAFLD, Younossi et al. reported the prevalence to be highest (32%) in the Middle East, and is estimated to grow further with an increase in its risk factors such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. NAFLD thus causes a substantial burden on healthcare systems and it is imperative that appropriate strategies are discussed at a regional level to facilitate effective management tailored to the needs of the region.

To fulfil this unmet need, experts from the region came together in three advisory board meetings conducted in Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait, to discuss current local challenges in NAFLD screening and diagnosis, and the different available management options. This opinion review by FM Sanai et al. (King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Makkah, Saudi Arabia) summarizes the discussions and opinion of the expert panel on the management of NAFLD/NASH and also presents an extensive literature review on the topic.

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Dr. G. Bozet, MD

Articles: 174

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