Academia Open
Vol. 11 No. 1 (2026): June

Pediatric NAFLD Epidemiology, Risk Factors and Research Gaps in Uzbekistan and India

Dinmukhammadieva Dilorom Rakhimjan kizi (PhD of the department of Childrenʼs disease in family medicine, Tashkent State Medical University, Tashkent)
Saurav Sunil Pawshe (Final 6th course student, Tashkent State Medical University)
Shadiyeva Soadat Ulmasovna (PhD of the department of Paediatric subjects Chemistry International University in Tashkent, Tashkent)



Article Info

Publish Date
05 Jan 2026

Abstract

General Background: Pediatric Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) represents a critical chronic liver condition in children globally, characterized by hepatic fat accumulation without alcohol exposure, potentially progressing to steatohepatitis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. Specific Background: Rapid socioeconomic transitions in Asia have escalated childhood obesity rates, with India reporting prevalence estimates of 12–63% among overweight children, while Uzbekistan demonstrates 50–66% prevalence in similar cohorts, though comprehensive epidemiological data remain limited. Knowledge Gap: No comparative analysis exists examining pediatric NAFLD patterns between Uzbekistan and India, particularly regarding temporal trends and population-based prevalence. Aims: This study compares burden, risk factors, and clinical characteristics of pediatric NAFLD across both nations through systematic literature review. Results: Both countries exhibit increasing prevalence driven by obesity and insulin resistance, with male preponderance and age-dependent patterns; however, Uzbekistan lacks population-based studies unlike India's more established epidemiological framework. Novelty: This represents the first cross-country comparison of pediatric NAFLD between Central and South Asian contexts. Implications: Findings underscore urgent need for standardized screening protocols, culturally adapted lifestyle interventions, and population-based research in Uzbekistan to inform national health policies.Keywords : Pediatric NAFLD, Childhood Obesity, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, Metabolic Syndrome, Insulin ResistanceHighlight : Prevalence reaches 42-47% among overweight Indian children, with boys consistently more affected. Uzbekistan shows 50-100% rates in obese cohorts but lacks comprehensive population-based studies. Both nations face growing burden from dietary transitions, urbanization, and sedentary lifestyles.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

acopen

Publisher

Subject

Medicine & Pharmacology Public Health

Description

Academia Open is published by Universitas Muhammadiyah Sidoarjo published 2 (two) issues per year (June and December). This journal provides immediate open access to its content on the principle that making research freely available to the public supports a greater global exchange of knowledge. This ...