Prevalence and Risk Factors of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) Among IT Professionals in India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) is emerging as a major health concern, particularly among sedentary professionals. This study aims to assess the prevalence and risk factors of MAFLD among IT professionals in India. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving clinical evaluations, biochemical tests, and lifestyle assessments among a diverse group of IT employees from multiple cities. Findings revealed a significant prevalence of MAFLD, especially among individuals with obesity and metabolic syndrome.

Major risk factors identified included a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy dietary habits, lack of physical activity, and prolonged working hours. Males exhibited a higher prevalence, though females with metabolic risk factors were also affected. Additionally, older age groups and individuals with elevated BMI showed a greater likelihood of developing MAFLD. Poor diet choices, low fiber intake, and inadequate physical activity further increased the risk. Given these findings, early screening and lifestyle modifications are essential to prevent disease progression.

Employers should promote wellness programs, regular health check-ups, and ergonomic work environments to mitigate risks. In conclusion, MAFLD is highly prevalent among Indian IT professionals, highlighting the need for urgent public health initiatives to address this growing issue.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) Among IT Professionals in India: A Cross-Sectional Study

India’s thriving IT industry, which contributes 7% to the GDP and employs over 5 million people, is facing a hidden health crisis. A recent study conducted in Hyderabad found that 84% of IT professionals exhibit signs of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), a condition closely linked to obesity, poor dietary habits, and sedentary lifestyles. This prevalence is alarmingly higher than the national average of 38.6%, underscoring the urgent need for workplace health interventions.

Why IT Professionals Are at Risk

The demanding work culture in the IT sector—characterized by long hours, high stress, irregular shifts, and frequent consumption of unhealthy snacks—creates the perfect environment for chronic health conditions. Researchers surveyed 345 IT employees (85% men, median age 38) and found that:

• 71% were obese
• 72% sat for more than 8 hours daily
• 70% slept less than 7 hours per night
• 38% reported high stress levels

These lifestyle factors, combined with diets rich in processed foods and insufficient physical activity, significantly increase the risk of metabolic disorders, including MAFLD.

Understanding MAFLD

MAFLD occurs when excessive fat accumulates in the liver, often due to underlying metabolic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, or high cholesterol. If left untreated, it can progress to severe liver damage. Notably, even non-obese individuals (BMI <23) were affected, with 5.8% diagnosed with MAFLD—indicating that body weight alone is not the sole determinant of risk.

Key Findings

• Lifestyle Factors: While 74% of participants worked standard shifts, 26% had irregular work hours, disrupting sleep and eating patterns. Only 56% engaged in regular exercise, while 22% were mostly inactive.
• Dietary Habits: Over 35% consumed diets high in sugar, 38% had low-fiber meals, and 28% drank sugary beverages daily.
• Metabolic Health: 76% had high LDL (“bad” cholesterol), 34% were diagnosed with metabolic syndrome (a cluster of heart disease and diabetes risk factors), and 21% had elevated blood sugar levels.
• Liver Health: Advanced FibroScan tests revealed that 33% had severe liver fat accumulation (grade S3), while 29% had moderate levels (grade S2). Fortunately, 97% had either no or only mild liver scarring.

Gender and Age Disparities

Men accounted for 74% of MAFLD cases, which may be attributed to their higher representation in IT roles. Additionally, older employees (aged 41–60) showed higher prevalence rates, indicating that age is a significant risk factor for the disease.

Call to Action

To address this growing health crisis, the study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions, including:

1. Encouraging Active Workplaces: Implementing walking breaks, standing desks, and onsite fitness programs.
2. Promoting Healthier Diets: Replacing processed office snacks with nutritious alternatives and raising awareness about balanced eating habits.
3. Routine Health Screenings: Regular liver tests to detect MAFLD early and prevent disease progression.
4. Stress Management Programs: Providing counseling services and flexible work schedules to support mental well-being.
5. Policy Reforms: Incorporating IT professionals into national health initiatives addressing lifestyle-related diseases.

Limitations and Future Research

While this study sheds light on a pressing issue, its findings are primarily based on male participants, limiting insights into female employees’ health risks. Future research should compare IT workers with professionals from other industries and explore the long-term impact of these health conditions.

Conclusion

India’s IT sector is a key driver of economic growth, but at a significant cost to worker health. With an 84% prevalence of MAFLD among IT professionals, companies must prioritize employee well-being through proactive health measures. By fostering healthier workplace environments, raising awareness, and promoting preventive care, the industry can mitigate future health risks.

A healthier workforce is not just beneficial for employees—it is essential for sustaining the long-term success of India’s IT sector. Now is the time to turn workspaces into centers of productivity and well-being rather than breeding grounds for chronic disease.