Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in a tanzanian non-communicable diseases Population: Links to sugar-sweetened beverage intake

ABSTRACT Background Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most common liver disease worldwide, and the leading cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of MASLD in populations with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in rural Tanzania and investigate whether the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) was associated with MASLD. Methods A retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected cohort of consecutive patients attending the NCD outpatient clinic in Iringa region of Tanzania was conducted. Data collected included sociodemographic, clinical, laboratory, and abdominal ultrasound data. Additionally, the Beverage Intake Questionnaire was administered to evaluate daily drinking behaviour. Results Overall, 183 patients were enrolled in this study, of whom, 128 (70%) were female. The mean age was 58 ± 13.7 years, and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 28 ± 6.67 Kg/m². Hypertension affected 141 patients (77.0%), diabetes affected 77 patients (42.1%), and both conditions were observed in 35 patients (19.1%). MASLD was identified in 48% of patients. Multivariate analysis revealed that only BMI and daily SSB consumption (fl oz) exhibited significant associations with MASLD, with respective odds ratios of 1.16 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06–1.28, p=0.002) and 1.19 (95% CI: 1.12–1.27, p <0.001). Conclusion This study showed a high prevalence of MASLD (48%) among rural Tanzanian patients with NCDs, highlighting the need for early detection using simple diagnostic methods. Additionally, a significant association between SSB consumption and MASLD was observed, urging increased awareness of its risks among patients with NCDs and beyond.