Risk Assessment of Metabolic Associated Steatotic Liver Disease – A Comprehensive Screening Among Community Health Workers of a Rural Field Practice Area in Belagavi

Introduction: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is now the largest cause of chronic liver disease globally, putting a significant strain on the healthcare system. Metabolic (dysfunction) associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), often known as NAFLD, is defined as hepatic steatosis combined with overweight or obesity, diabetes mellitus, or indications of metabolic dysfunction. This study/systematic screening programme was done among healthcare workers to determine the prevalence and risk factors for MASLD. Understanding the incidence and risk factors unique to this demographic allows healthcare providers to devise personalised interventions, promote healthy lifestyles, and eventually minimise the burden of MASLD in the community. Methodology: Between October 2023 and March 2024, a comprehensive cross-sectional survey was carried out among ASHA and Anganwadi staff who were registered with PHC Kinaye. Using the universal sampling technique, a sample size of 130 workers—56 ASHA employees and 74 Anganwadi employees—was obtained. A predesigned and pretested questionnaire was used to gather sociodemographic data, and estimations of random blood sugar, HbA1c, lipid profile and fibroscan were performed. Results: The participants' average age was 38.10 ± 8.42 years. Sixty-two percent of research participants did not have any comorbidities. According to the fibro scan data, 73.8% of the subjects showed no liver fibrosis and 45.2% had Grade 0 fatty liver. Waist-Hip ratio and liver fibrosis were found to be significantly correlated. Physical activity was significantly associated with liver fibrosis and BMI was significantly associated with fatty liver. Conclusion: Health care workers who are physically inactive are more likely to have fatty liver alterations and liver fibrosis, as well as an elevated waist-hip ratio. Future initiatives should concentrate on helping people who are at-risk change their lifestyles by implementing a nutritious diet and regular exercise, as well as informing the public about fatty liver disease and its preventative measures. Key words: Fatty liver, Female Health workers, Screening