Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and its role in the development of cardiovascular diseases

Abstract

Objective. To evaluate the contribution of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular complications, as well as to highlight the main approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of NAFLD based on modern literature data. Key points. NAFLD is the most common chronic liver disease (in developed countries – up to 25–30% of the population). NAFLD is a significant risk factor for insulin resistance (IR), carbohydrate metabolism disorders, dyslipidemia, and adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Treatment of NAFLD includes an impact on the main links of pathogenesis, therefore the main therapeutic strategy is lifestyle changes, weight loss and elimination of IR, the prescription of hepatoprotectors and herbal medicines. Conclusion. Being a multifactorial disease leading to increased cardiovascular risk, NAFLD should be detected in a timely manner. Treatment of NAFLD can slow the progression of liver disease and reduce the risks of cardiometabolic complications.