Global burden of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, 1990-2023, and projections to 2050: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023.

Researchers examined the global burden of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, analyzing data from 1990 to 2023 across 204 countries. This condition affects the liver and is closely linked to metabolic health issues like high blood sugar and obesity. The study found that approximately 1.3 billion people worldwide were living with MASLD in 2023—that's about 16% of the global population. This represents a 143% increase in actual cases since 1990, though some of this growth reflects our aging and expanding population. The condition affected men more than women and peaked in different age groups depending on sex. Three major risk factors were identified: high fasting blood sugar (the biggest contributor), high body mass index, and smoking. Looking ahead, researchers project that by 2050, about 1.8 billion people will have MASLD, a 42% increase from current numbers. The study revealed significant regional differences, with North Africa and the Middle East showing the highest rates. Importantly, countries with lower healthcare access and quality face greater challenges managing MASLD complications. This research highlights the growing importance of addressing metabolic health through multiple approaches. For patients considering acupuncture as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for metabolic health concerns, working with a qualified practitioner who can coordinate with your medical team is essential.

This Global Burden of Disease Study 2023 systematic analysis evaluated MASLD prevalence and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) across 204 countries from 1990-2023. In 2023, an estimated 1.3 billion individuals (16.1% global prevalence) had MASLD, with age-standardised prevalence of 14,429.3 per 100,000 population—representing a 142.7% increase in crude numbers and 28.6% rate increase since 1990. Total DALYs reached 3.6 million (age-standardised rate: 39.6 per 100,000), though age-standardised DALY rates remained stable since 1990. High fasting plasma glucose contributed most to DALY burden (2.2 per 100,000), followed by high BMI (1.4) and smoking (1.0). Prevalence was consistently higher in males and peaked at age 80-84 years. Forecasting models project 1.8 billion cases by 2050 (42% increase), driven primarily by population growth rather than epidemiological change. An inverse association between Healthcare Access and Quality Index and DALY rates suggests resource-limited settings face disproportionate burden, warranting integrated approaches addressing metabolic dysfunction.