What's in a name? Renaming 'NAFLD' to 'MAFLD'

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Medical Terminology
• Public Health

Background:

• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) nomenclature has faced criticism for its focus on alcohol and negative impacts like stigmatization.
• Existing terminology may hinder disease understanding, patient support, and health policy development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the historical context and definitions of metabolic (dysfunction) associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD).
• To explore the implications of renaming NAFLD to MAFLD from various stakeholder perspectives.
• To discuss the potential of the new nomenclature to advance disease conceptualization and management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on the history and definitions of NAFLD/MAFLD.
• Analysis of stakeholder perspectives on the nomenclature change.
• Discussion of the impact on health promotion, patient orientation, clinical trials, and healthcare delivery.

Main Results:

• A consensus proposed changing NAFLD to MAFLD to address nomenclature issues.
• The name change signifies a shift beyond semantics, aiming for better disease conceptualization.
• The transition involves various stakeholders and presents opportunities and challenges.

Conclusions:

• The renaming of NAFLD to MAFLD is a significant step towards improving the understanding and management of fatty liver disease.
• This change has the potential to positively influence patient care, research, and public health strategies.
• Addressing the challenges associated with the transition is crucial for realizing the full benefits of the MAFLD nomenclature.