Abstract
BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and the main demographic, lifestyle, and metabolic risk factors associated with its prevalence. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted on a representative sample of adults living in the Qassim area of Saudi Arabia. The participants were interviewed using structured questionnaires that elicited self-reported demographic data, lifestyle, and medical history. RESULTS: The prevalence of NAFLD was strongly related to age, obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), dyslipidemia, and lifestyle. The NAFLD patients had a significantly higher mean age compared to non-NAFLD individuals (45.3 ± 10.2 vs. 39.6 ± 9.8 years, P = 0.002). Obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m(2)) was an independent strong predictor of NAFLD, with an odds ratio (OR) of 4.23 (95% CI: 2.78-6.45, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of NAFLD in the population under study was detected, and features of metabolic syndrome and lifestyle factors were strongly accountable for the occurrence of the disease.