Global cases of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) are expected to reach 1.8 billion people by 205 and, according to a new study, are already affecting one in six people worldwide.
Research published in the journal Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology indicates that the number of people living with the condition has jumped from 500 million in 1990 to 1.3 billion in 2023.
This represents a 143% increase in just three decades. The study, part of the global burden of diseases, injuries, and risk factors research, attributes this surge to population growth, rising obesity, and high blood sugar levels.
Drivers of the epidemic
High blood sugar serves as the primary driver of MASLD-related health problems, followed by high BMI and smoking. The findings highlight a strong link between the liver condition and the prevalence of type 2 diabetes.
While the disease is most common in older adults aged 80 to 84, the largest number of affected individuals are younger. Men aged 35 to 39 and women aged 55 to 59 represent the most significant groups of patients.
Regional disparities are evident, with North Africa and the Middle East showing disproportionately higher rates. However, sharp increases are being recorded globally.
In the United Kingdom, the prevalence rate grew by 33% between 1990 and 2023, the highest increase in Western Europe. Similar rises were noted in Australia at 30% and the United States at 22%.
Despite the rising numbers, the study found that the overall impact on health—measured by years lost to illness or death—has remained stable. Researchers suggest that advances in medical care and treatment may be helping patients live longer despite the diagnosis.
Many patients remain unaware they have the condition because it often lacks symptoms. The NHS in England notes that MASLD is frequently discovered only during tests for unrelated issues.
Researchers at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington led the study. They stated that the findings show MASLD is increasingly affecting younger adults due to changing lifestyles.
Future complications for those affected include liver cirrhosis and cancer. The study authors called for the development of global health policies and awareness campaigns to mitigate the impact of the disease.
