Association between arterial stiffness and MASLD in US young adults: base on NHANES 2005-2018

Background

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) impacts >30 % of the world's population, imposing significant societal and familial burdens. Arterial stiffness is a known risk factor for various metabolic disorders, and early-onset MASLD may be linked to heightened arterial stiffness. However, studies investigating the link between arterial stiffness and MASLD are limited.

Methods

This study utilized data from the NHANES database, focusing on young adults aged 20 to 45 years, spanning from 2005 to 2018. The Fatty Liver Index (FLI) was used to diagnose MASLD, and the estimated Pulse Wave Velocity (ePWV) was utilized to assess arterial stiffness. The association between MASLD and arterial stiffness was analyzed using weighted multiple logistic regression models and restricted cubic splines. Sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate the stability of the observed relationship.

Results

The study included 5 522 participants, with 3 415 serving as controls and 2 107 diagnosed with MASLD. The two groups differed significantly in age, income, and comorbidities, including hypertension and diabetes. The mean ePWV was 6.79 (SD = 0.71) in the MASLD group and 6.33 (SD = 0.57) in the control group, respectively. Adjusted weighted logistic regression models revealed that individuals in the high ePWV group (ePWV ≥ 6.559) had a 2.39-fold increased risk of onset compared to those in the low ePWV group (ePWV < 6.559), with statistical significance (P < 0.05). Restricted cubic splines (RCS) also demonstrated a positive linear correlation between ePWV and MASLD. Sensitivity analysis validated the strong correlation between ePWV and MASLD, while subgroup analysis demonstrated a positive association between ePWV and MASLD across most subgroups (OR > 1).

Conclusion

The study indicates a strong association between arterial stiffness, as measured by ePWV, and MASLD in young adults. The results suggest that targeting arterial stiffness could aid in preventing and managing MASLD.