Metabolic-Dysfunction Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) and obesity in sub-saharan Africa: A growing health concern

Abstract

Background: Metabolic dysfunction Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD), previously known as Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver disease  (NAFLD), and Obesity are rapidly emerging challenges for public health in the Sub Saharan African Regions.

Objective: This review  highlights the increasing burden of NAFLD and Obesity in the Sub Saharan African region and strategies to combat this growing public  health challenge

Design: A Narrative Review

Setting: Nairobi, Kenya

Subjects: Patients with MAFLD

Results: Sub Saharan Africa is a  region that faces many challenges in its healthcare infrastructure along with the sedentary lifestyle of the population at large. Early detection of MAFLD is of paramount importance as the disease during its initial stages is silent in nature. On the other hand, Obesity is  rising in the Sub Saharan African region, contributing directly to the increasing burden of MAFLD being one of its major risk factors.  MAFLD is associated with complications that include cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, both of which are irreversible.

Conclusion:  Further research is required to understand the burden and risk factors associated with MAFLD and Obesity in the Sub Saharan African  Region.