English abstract
Studies characterizing Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) are limited in Oman. This study aims to assess the prevalence of NAFLD in obese Omani patients and find its relationship with other obesity-related medical conditions. Fifty-five adult obese patients were evaluated via medical history, clinical examination, and laboratory tests. Patients with any possible risk of liver injury were excluded. Diagnosis of NAFLD relied on ultrasonography criteria. Data were entered and analyzed in SPSS (version 22). The prevalence of NAFLD was calculated using frequency and percentages. Out of the total patient population, 37 (67.3%) have had NAFLD. Most of the patients (81%) were below 50 years of age. Systolic hypertension was present in 45.9%, while diastolic hypertension was present in 43.2%. AST and ALT levels were significantly increased (p<0.001) in most patients; 81.1% and 73%, respectively. Fasting blood sugar (FBS) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels were higher in NAFLD patients (p<0.01). Mean levels of LDL, uric acid, and total cholesterol were significantly higher in the NAFLD patients (p<0.01). In conclusion, NAFLD and related metabolic complications are prevalent in obese Omani individuals.
