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Semin Liver Dis 2008; 28(4): 339-350
DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1091978
© Thieme Medical Publishers

The Epidemiology of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Global Perspective

Mariana Lazo1 , 2 , Jeanne M. Clark1 , 2 , 3
  • 1Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
  • 2Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Baltimore, Maryland
  • 3Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
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Publication History

Publication Date:
27 October 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an increasingly recognized cause of liver disease in the United States and worldwide. With obesity being an important risk factor universally, NAFLD is now receiving greater attention and is regarded as a public health issue. In addition, as a result of an aging population and the improving control of other major causes of chronic liver disease, such as hepatitis C and hepatitis B, the burden of NAFLD is expected to increase in years to come. Prevalence estimates of this disease vary widely across populations because of differences in methods for diagnosis and/or definition. New strategies for the prevention, diagnosis, and management will be required to alter the course of this disease.

KEYWORDS

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease - NAFLD - epidemiology - risk factors

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Mariana Lazo M.D. M.Sc. 

Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research

2024 E. Monument Street, Suite 2-600, Baltimore, MD 21205-2223

Email: mlazo@jhsph.edu