An Insight into the Genetic Predisposition of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease in Africa

Abstract

African individuals with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MAFLD) may have unique genetic factors that influence the clinical manifestations of MAFLD. The paucity of both epidemiological data on MAFLD within Africa and the lack of genetic research thereof have disadvantaged the population, as extrapolated data out the region has been utilised to direct health care policy and management of the disease. This unique cohort of MAFLD individuals within Africa requires further epidemiological and genomic research to advance precision medicine within the realm of clinical hepatology. With the anticipated increase in non-communicable disease that sub-Saharan African may experience in the near future, a robust large study within Africa may provide insight as to whether MAFLD prevalence may be expected to significantly add to this impending health burden; furthermore, a genetic research component may provide insight into whether protective genetic variants are present or whether there is a lack of pathogenic variants, thereby allowing clinicians and policy strategists to have a better understanding of the disease prevalence and manifestations in African individuals. The aim of this publication was to review the current prevalence trends of MAFLD within Africa and the knowledge of the genetic landscape of MAFLD individuals of African descent.