Nonlinear relationship between TyG index and the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in Chinese population: a cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background: There is insufficient evidence on the link between the triglyceride-glucose index (TyG) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the Chinese population. This study aims to investigate the association between TyG and the risk of NAFLD.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 994 participants who underwent health examinations. Demographic information, blood biochemistry profiles, and ultrasonics results were collected. Logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis was used to assess the nonlinear relationship between TyG and NAFLD risk. Subgroup analysis was performed to examine possible interaction effects.

Results: Overall, 31.2% (n = 314) of the general population had NAFLD. Age, male gender, BMI, blood pressure, alanine aminotransferase, fasting blood glucose, uric acid, triglycerides and TyG levels were associated with NAFLD. RCS analysis showed a significant nonlinear dose-response relationship between TyG index and NAFLD. The risk of developing NAFLD increases significantly with a higher TyG index. This association persists even after adjustment for relevant risk factors [odds ratio (OR): 4.70, 95% CI 3.24 to 6.83]. Furthermore, compared to the lowest quartile of TyG (Q1), the NAFLD risk of subjects in the Q2, Q3, and Q4 quartiles increased 1.53, 3.84, and 16.07 times, respectively (P for trend < 0.001). Furthermore, statistically significant interactions were observed between TyG index and gender, BMI, and hypertension in predicting NAFLD risk (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: This study highlights the impact of an elevated TyG index on the risk of developing NAFLD. Elevated TyG levels may serve as a risk factor for NAFLD in the Chinese population.