The Silent Liver: Metabolic Syndrome and the Hidden Burden of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Louis Martin ¹, Léa Fontaine ²

Abstract

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. This study investigated the relationship between metabolic syndrome components and the prevalence of NAFLD among adults attending primary healthcare clinics.

A cross-sectional study involving 1,540 participants aged 30–65 years was conducted between 2022 and 2024. Liver ultrasound and metabolic assessments were performed.

NAFLD was detected in 34.7% of participants. Individuals with obesity had a 2.9-fold increased risk, while patients with diabetes had a 3.4-fold increased risk of NAFLD. Elevated triglyceride levels and hypertension were also significantly associated with disease development.

The study highlights NAFLD as a growing metabolic health challenge requiring early detection and lifestyle intervention.