Epidemiological characteristics and management of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in China: A narrative review

Abstract Aim With industrialization and spread of the westernized lifestyle, the number of people affected by non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)/non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is growing rapidly in China; this has become a major public health concern. To better understand the burden and characteristics of NAFLD/NASH in China, we aim to perform a narrative review of the literature published in this field. Materials and Methods We carried out a comprehensive electronic search of five English‐language and three Chinese‐language databases, to identify studies regarding NAFLD or NASH published from inception to November 30, 2022. Epidemiological studies of NAFLD/NASH in China were particularly noticed and summarized. We also searched the www.clinicaltrials.gov and www.chictr.org.cn websites for the registered trials on the treatment of the disease led by Chinese investigators or located in China. Results The increasing rate of NAFLD prevalence in China is strikingly high, reaching more than twice that in western countries. The prevalence of NAFLD is nearly 30% of the general Chinese population, making it the leading cause of chronic liver diseases. The prevalence of NAFLD/NASH varies between provinces/regions, age groups, sexes, and individuals with different metabolic profiles. NAFLD co‐exists in many Chinese patients with chronic hepatitis B. Since 2020, more Chinese studies have used the term metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), emphasizing the underlying metabolic disorders that occur concurrently with this disease. Several clinical trials involving lifestyle interventions, antidiabetic drugs, or traditional Chinese medicines, registered by Chinese investigators, have been completed or are ongoing. Moreover, several innovative targeted therapies developed in China are revolutionizing the treatment of NAFLD/NASH. Conclusions NAFLD has cast a heavy burden on the Chinese healthcare system. Chinese scholars are making efforts to achieve the optimal management of this disease.