VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY IN PATIENTS WITH NON-ALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER DISEASE

Abstract

Background:  Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a growing health concern in Pakistan and globally, often coexisting with metabolic disorders. Emerging evidence suggests an association between vitamin D deficiency and NAFLD, potentially contributing to disease progression. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and its associated factors in patients diagnosed with NAFLD.

Patients and Methods:  A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted over six months in the Department of Medicine, Liaquat University Hospital Hyderabad. A total of 130 adult patients (aged 20-60 years), diagnosed with NAFLD via ultrasound and meeting strict inclusion/exclusion criteria, were enrolled. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum vitamin D ≤20 ng/mL. Data on demographics, clinical features, comorbidities, lifestyle habits, and biochemical parameters were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22.0. Chi-square test was applied, and p-value ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:  Vitamin D deficiency was observed in 93 (71.5%) NAFLD patients. Significant associations were found with obesity (p<0.001), diabetes mellitus (p=0.006), hyperlipidemia (p=0.02), anemia (p=0.003), junk food consumption (p<0.001), low sun exposure (p<0.001), and low AST/ALT ratio (p<0.001). No statistically significant relationship was found with gender, marital status, or smoking status.

Conclusion:  Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent among patients with NAFLD and is significantly associated with several modifiable metabolic and lifestyle factors. These findings highlight the need for early screening and management of vitamin D status in NAFLD patients to potentially improve clinical outcomes and halt disease progression.