| Abstract: | OBJECTIVES: We aimed to investigate the correlation between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). DESIGN AND METHODS: We analyzed 724 subjects without CVD according to presence or absence of NAFLD. Logistic regression model was used to determine if NAFLD was an independent risk factor of CVD. RESULTS: Subjects with NAFLD had increased percentage of 10-year cardiovascular risk ≧10% compared to those without NAFLD (p<0.001). The severity of NAFLD significantly correlated with increasing Framingham risk score and C-relative protein (CRP) value. After adjusting for conventional CVD risk factors, the presence of NAFLD was an independent predictor for future CVD risk ≧10% [odds ratio: 1.89, p=0.004]. Subgroup analysis showed the predictive value of NAFLD was significant among aged subjects and those with increased baseline hsCRP level. CONCLUSIONS: NAFLD is independently associated with increased CVD risk, especially among elderly subjects and those with increased CRP level. |
