1- Student Research Committee, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran 2- Liver and Digestive Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran 3- Clinical Research Development Unit, Kowsar Hospital, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran 4- Liver and Digestive Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran , hakim.khodai@gmail.com
Abstract: (33 Views)
Background and Aim: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most prevalent chronic liver diseases worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the association between the Fatty Liver Index (FLI) as a screening tool and demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status, and physical activity levels. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 3,996 participants enrolled in the Dehgolan cohort study. Data on demographic variables, socioeconomic status, physical activity, and routine laboratory tests were collected, and the FLI was calculated. The relationships between FLI and the aforementioned variables were analyzed. Results: Of the participants, 56.3% were men and 43.7% were women, with a mean age of 48.33 ± 8.91 years. Based on FLI, 24.8% had a normal liver status, while 43.9% were in the high-risk category. The mean FLI was significantly higher in men than in women (P = 0.000). FLI showed significant associations with age, education, marital status, socioeconomic level, occupation, weight, waist and hip circumference, body mass index (BMI), serum AST and ALT levels, diabetes, gestational diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic conditions. Conclusion: The findings indicate that FLI can serve as an effective indicator for the early detection of fatty liver risk and related metabolic disorders, highlighting the need for preventive measures and clinical interventions to control associated risk factors.