The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and metabolic syndrome in obese children

Abstract

Background and aim: In the context of present epidemic of childhood obesity, we aimed to find the prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and metabolic syndrome (MS) in a cohort of obese children.

Methodology: Retrospective chart analysis of 700 obese children was done for their anthropometric and biochemical investigations.

Results: Some 15.4% (9.8% girls, 22% boys) subjects had NAFLD (ALT > 40 IU/L) after excluding other identifiable causes of liver dysfunction. Age, weight, TG, fasting serum insulin and HOMA-IR levels were higher in children with NAFLD. Twenty-eight percent children had MS. Children with NAFLD had an odds ratio of 2.65 for having MS (boys 4.6, girls 1.7). The prevalence of MS increased with age 5-9 years (21%), 10-16 years (30%), 17-20 years (35%).

Conclusion: Given high prevalence of NAFLD and MS in obese children, childhood obesity should be seriously considered as a disease and not just a cosmetic issue.