Exploring the Impact of Physical Activity on Cryptogenic Steatotic Liver Disease: A Nigerian Case-Control Study.

Abstract

Background: Cryptogenic steatotic liver disease (CSLD) is a novel subject where the liver has significant steatosis but without a known cause or abnormal cardiometabolic risk factors. It is a growing global health concern with an unclear etiology. Despite the increasing prevalence of CSLD, particularly in regions undergoing rapid urbanization and lifestyle changes, there is limited research on its risk factors in Nigeria. This study investigated the relationship between physical activity and CSLD in a Nigerian population.

Methodology: A case-control study was conducted in tertiary institutions in Zaria, Nigeria. A total of 362 participants were recruited, comprising 181 individuals with CSLD diagnosed via ultrasound and 181 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Lifestyle, anthropometric, and biochemical data were collected, with physical activity levels classified into sedentary, mild, moderate, and strenuous categories. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression, were performed to assess associations between physical activity and CSLD.

Results: There was no significant difference in age (p = 0.5578) or sex distribution (p = 0.9160) between CSLD cases and controls. However, a significant association was observed between CSLD severity and physical activity levels (χ²= 172.1, p < 0.0001). Sedentary individuals had a higher risk of CSLD, while moderate physical activity was the most protective (OR: 0.001, p < 0.001). These findings suggest that an inactive lifestyle is a strong risk factor for CSLD.

Conclusion: Sedentary behavior is an independent risk factor for CSLD, while regular physical activity, particularly moderate exercise, is protective. Public health initiatives promoting physical activity should be prioritized to mitigate CSLD progression and its complications. Further longitudinal research is needed to explore genetic predispositions and assess the long-term impact of lifestyle modifications on CSLD outcomes.