Who is at risk for fatty liver disease?

The cause of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is unknown. Researchers do know that it is more common in people who:

Have type 2 diabetes and prediabetes

Have obesity

Are middle aged or older (although children can also get it)

Are Hispanic, followed by non-Hispanic whites. It is less common in African Americans.

Have high levels of fats in the blood, such as cholesterol and triglycerides

Have high blood pressure

Take certain drugs, such as corticosteroids and some cancer drugs

Have certain metabolic disorders, including metabolic syndrome

Have rapid weight loss

Have certain infections, such as hepatitis C

Have been exposed to some toxins

NAFLD affects about 25% of people in the world. As the rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol are rising in the United States, so is the rate of NAFLD. NAFLD is the most common chronic liver disorder in the United States.

Alcoholic fatty liver disease only happens in people who are heavy drinkers, especially those who have been drinking for a long period of time. The risk is higher for heavy drinkers who are women, have obesity, or have certain genetic mutations.