Clinical and Comorbidity Profile of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract

Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a prevalent liver condition closely linked to metabolic and systemic comorbidities. Objective: To characterize the clinical profile and comorbidity burden of patients with MAFLD versus non-MAFLD patients, with emphasis on metabolic and gastrointestinal comorbidities Methods: Retrospective cohort study of 850 adults (432 MAFLD; 418 non-MAFLD) at a tertiary care center. Demographics, clinical parameters, and comorbidities were compared using appropriate parametric/non-parametric tests for continuous variables and chi-square/Fisher’s exact tests for categorical variables. Multivariable logistic regression estimated associations between MAFLD and comorbidities, adjusted for key confounders. Results: MAFLD patients had higher BMI (29.71 ± 4.62 vs 26.25 ± 3.90 kg/m²; p < 0.001) and elevated liver enzymes versus controls. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (49.3% vs 35.9%; adjusted OR 1.74; p < 0.001) and dyslipidemia (69.0% vs 42.3%; adjusted OR 3.03; p < 0.001) was greater in the MAFLD group, whereas hypertension, GERD, and pancreatitis did not differ significantly. The number of metabolic comorbidities increased with steatosis severity, and liver function tests worsened progressively across higher steatosis grades. Conclusion: MAFLD is strongly associated with metabolic comorbidities—particularly type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia—and greater steatosis severity parallels higher metabolic burden and liver dysfunction. These findings support comprehensive metabolic screening and integrated management strategies in patients with MAFLD.