Prevalence And Predictors of Nafld in Obese Pediatric Patients

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasingly recognized as the most common chronic liver disease in children, strongly associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome. Early identification in pediatric populations is crucial to prevent long-term complications.

Objectives: To determine the prevalence and predictors of NAFLD among obese pediatric patients and compare findings with age- and sex-matched non-obese controls.

Methods: A hospital-based case–control study was conducted in the Department of Pediatrics, Yadgir Institute of Medical Sciences, Yadgir, from April to August 2025. A total of 50 children (25 obese cases and 25 non-obese controls) aged 6–16 years were enrolled. Anthropometric measurements, biochemical parameters (fasting glucose, lipid profile, liver function tests), and abdominal ultrasonography were performed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0, applying Chi-square test, Student’s t-test, and logistic regression to identify predictors of NAFLD.

Results: The prevalence of NAFLD in obese children was 56%, compared to 12% in controls (p<0.01). Obese children with higher BMI, increased waist circumference, dyslipidemia, and elevated ALT levels had a significantly higher risk of NAFLD. Multivariate logistic regression identified BMI ≥95th percentile and triglycerides >150 mg/dL as independent predictors of NAFLD.

Conclusion: NAFLD is highly prevalent among obese pediatric patients, with obesity and metabolic abnormalities serving as strong predictors. Routine screening of obese children with ultrasonography and metabolic profiling is recommended for early detection and prevention of progressive liver disease.