Factors influencing effective decrease of controlled attenuation parameters in metabolic-associated steatotic liver...

Metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a growing global health concern. Although several studies have demonstrated associations between baseline metabolic factors and hepatic steatosis, the quantitative influence of these characteristics on the extent of liver fat reduction following lifestyle modification remains unclear. This study aims to analyse the relationship between baseline factors and the modulation of controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) from baseline to 6 months and compare the mean difference in CAP changes of individuals at a telemedicine-based clinic.

A cohort of MASLD who had hepatic steatosis (CAP ≥ 215 dB/m) with metabolic risk were enrolled. (30 August 2023-30 April 2024). Baseline characteristics, diet and exercise were collected. Multivariable multilevel random intercepts and slope linear regression models were used to analyse the mean difference in CAP change over time for each characteristic adjusted for other variables in the model.

The mean age was 46.93 years, 70% were females. The baseline CAP value was 319.13 ± 42.33 dB/m. Individual baseline age ≥ 45 (-44.52 dB/m [CI -84.86 to -4.17], p = 0.031); higher waist circumference (-87.85 dB/m [CI -153.23 to -22.47], p = 0.008); and a lower BMI (-78.31 dB/m [CI -139.94 to -16.67], p = 0.013) were associated with greater reductions in the mean difference of CAP change. Notably, participants with diabetes (-61.31 dB/m [CI -100.25 to -22.36], p = 0.002) and better glycemic control (-43.49 dB/m [CI -74.00 to -12.99], p = 0.005) exhibited greater liver fat reductions.

Lifestyle modification led to significant reductions in liver fat, and the extent of improvement was influenced by baseline metabolic characteristics. These findings suggest that metabolic profiles, rather than weight loss alone, determine treatment responsiveness and support the use of individualized lifestyle strategies for MASLD management.