Rising prevalence of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease in the US

The prevalence of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), the leading global cause of liver disease, is increasing in the US, with Mexican Americans consistently having the highest percentage. MAFLD is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and a common type of liver cancer. The increase in MAFLD is concerning, as this condition can lead to liver failure and cardiovascular diseases and has an important health disparity. The percent of people with MAFLD increased from 16% in 1988 to 37% in 2018, while the percent of obesity rose from 23% in 1988 to 40% in 2018.