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Trends and Disparities in Pediatric Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease-Associated Hospitalizations in the United States

Eric Dybbro1,2, Deepa Dongarwar2, Hamisu M Salihu2

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX.

Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
|January 19, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) hospitalizations increased nationwide, with the highest rates and fastest growth observed in Hispanic children. This highlights significant racial disparities in NAFLD prevalence and healthcare needs.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology
  • Public Health and Epidemiology
  • Metabolic Disorders

Background:

  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing health concern in children, linked to metabolic syndrome.
  • Previous studies indicated racial disparities in pediatric NAFLD, but were geographically limited.
  • Understanding national trends is crucial for addressing the increasing prevalence of pediatric NAFLD.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze national trends in pediatric NAFLD-related hospitalizations from 2004 to 2018.
  • To identify associated co-morbidities and examine racial/ethnic disparities in these hospitalizations.
  • To provide data for targeted public health interventions.

Main Methods:

  • Cross-sectional study using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database (2004-2018).
  • Included pediatric hospitalizations (ages 0-17) for NAFLD using ICD-9/10 codes.
  • Analyzed trends with joinpoint regression and associations with logistic regression.

Main Results:

  • A significant overall increase in pediatric NAFLD hospitalizations was observed (AAPC 6.6%).
  • Hispanic children had the highest hospitalization rates and fastest growth (AAPC 11.1%).
  • Hispanic patients showed increased odds of hospitalization (OR 1.64), while NH-Black patients showed decreased odds (OR 0.49) compared to NH-White patients.

Conclusions:

  • Nationwide data reveal a significant rise in pediatric NAFLD hospitalizations, disproportionately affecting Hispanic children.
  • Racial and ethnic disparities in NAFLD hospitalization rates are evident.
  • Further research into sex and co-morbidity correlations is needed to guide interventions for high-risk populations.
Abstract

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