Association between serum selenium and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Results from NHANES: An observational study

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) encompasses a broad spectrum of diseases and stands as the second most prevalent liver disorder in the 21st century. Advanced hepatic fibrosis (AHF) is a crucial indicator of the progression of NAFLD. Selenium (Se) is an indispensable trace element for human physiology; however, excessive intake can lead to poisoning and detrimental effects. Notably, males exhibit significantly higher serum Se levels compared to females. To investigate the correlation between serum Se levels and the prevalence of NAFLD and AHF across different genders. Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017-2020, 7271 participants were included. Through descriptive analysis, multivariable logistic regression, subgroup analysis, interaction, and restricted cubic spline regression analysis, the relationship between serum Se levels and the prevalence of NAFLD and AHF was investigated. serum Se levels were significantly higher in both male and female NAFLD groups compared to the non-NAFLD groups (Males: 187.570 vs 183.300, Z = -16.169, P < .001; Females: 184.780 vs 180.130, Z = -4.102, P < .001). After adjusting for confounders, an increase in one quartile of serum Se was associated with a 17.60% increase in NAFLD prevalence in males (OR, 1.176; 95% CI: 1.052-1.315) and a 38.50% decrease in AHF prevalence (OR, 0.615; 95% CI: 0.479-0.789). In females, each quartile increase in serum Se was associated with a 29.10% increase in NAFLD prevalence (OR,1.291;95%CI: 1.155-1.442) and a 51.60% decrease in AHF prevalence (OR, 0.484; 95% CI: 0.344-0.682). serum Se levels are positively correlated with the prevalence of NAFLD and negatively correlated with the prevalence of AHF in both males and females.