Summary
This study examined the bidirectional relationship between hypertension and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) using data from NHANES 2017–2018 and genome-wide association summary statistics. Weighted logistic regression of 3,144 participants found hypertension was positively associated with NAFLD risk (OR=1.677), whilst Mendelian randomisation analysis provided evidence for a causal relationship (OR=7.203). Both systolic and diastolic blood pressure elevation showed independent associations with NAFLD, with findings confirmed by sensitivity analyses.
UK applicability
The findings are relevant to UK clinical practice and public health policy regarding hypertension management and NAFLD screening, as both conditions are prevalent in the UK adult population. However, the study used US NHANES data; applicability requires consideration of differences in UK population genetics, healthcare systems, and dietary patterns.
Key measures
Odds ratios for NAFLD risk; systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) thresholds (≥130 mmHg and ≥80 mmHg); liver steatosis (β coefficient); inverse variance weighted (IVW) analysis
Outcomes reported
The study measured the association between hypertension (and blood pressure measures) and NAFLD risk using observational data, and investigated causal relationships using Mendelian randomization. Primary outcomes included odds ratios for NAFLD risk and liver steatosis severity.
Topic tags
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