Prevalence of dyslipidaemia and transaminitis in obese 8 to 18-year-old in Eastern India

Background: Rapidly increasing prevalence of obesity is a serious health concern. Obesity is associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease and liver damage due to non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Abnormal lipids and obesity are important risk factors for cardiovascular disease. A blood test can reveal an atherogenic lipid profile and raised liver transaminase levels. This study was planned to determine the prevalence of dyslipidaemia and transaminitis in obese children in Eastern India. Methods: Obese children between 8-18 years, who had no other illness, were included in the study. IAP BMI (Body mass index) charts (5-18 yrs) were used to confirm obesity. After obtaining consent from the caregiver and the assent of the subject, blood samples were sent to the laboratory for lipid profiles, AST and ALT. Age and gender-appropriate cutoffs were used for analysis. Results: 59.7% were boys and 40.3% were girls. Dyslipidaemia was prevalent in 66.13%. All three lipid values (triglycerides, non-HDL-C, and HDL) were abnormal in 8.06%, which is combined dyslipidaemia. 41.34% of the subjects had raised liver transaminases, and 30.65% had elevation of both AST and ALT. There was significant correlation of BMI with triglycerides, total cholesterol, VLDL, non-HDL-C and AST. Conclusion: Obese children have a high prevalence of dyslipidaemia and transaminitis. Both these complications, along with obesity, are likely to persist into adulthood and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and liver damage. Simple and reliable screening tests can help to identify those at risk so that timely and appropriate interventions can correct obesity in children.