Associations among albumin-bilirubin grade, metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease, and exercise

Abstract

Abstract Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is suggested as an alternative terminology to the previously termed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Despite its introduction, the relationships between MAFLD, non-MAFLD, and the albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) grade, an indicator of liver dysfunction, are yet to be thoroughly understood. This research delves into these relationships and strives to pinpoint factors that might contribute to a favorable prognosis. Utilizing a cross-sectional design, this investigation examined data extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, focusing on American adults aged 20 and above. The findings revealed a notably elevated incidence of liver dysfunction in individuals diagnosed with MAFLD. This elevated risk was particularly pronounced in females under the age of 65. Delving deeper with a multivariate logistic regression approach, it was discerned that high levels of physical activity inversely correlated with hepatic dysfunction, especially in MAFLD patients without cirrhosis manifestation. The conclusions drawn from this research underscore that MAFLD-diagnosed patients face a more daunting hepatic outlook compared to their non-MAFLD counterparts and healthy controls. Moreover, the therapeutic potential of regular physical activity in forestalling hepatic dysfunction in non-cirrhotic MAFLD patients stands affirmed.