Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is associated with coronary artery calcification development: A longitudinal study

Abstract

Context: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with coronary artery calcification (CAC) in cross-sectional studies. However, whether NAFLD itself affects CAC development or progression remains unknown. Objective: This study investigated the longitudinal association between NAFLD and CAC score. Design and Setting: This study is a longitudinal cohort study performed in a healthcare center. Participants: Among 1732 subjects who underwent serial CAC evaluation, we evaluated 846 subjects with NAFLD and 886 subjects without NAFLD, as diagnosed via ultrasonography. Main Outcome Measures: CAC score was compared at baseline and follow-up. In subjects without calcification (CAC scoreα0) at baseline, any incidental calcification (CAC score >0) at follow-upwas defined as development of CAC. In subjects with CAC (CAC score > 0) at baseline, confirmed CAC aggravation was defined as progression. Logistic regression analysis was performed. Results: More subjects with NAFLD than without showed CAC development or progression (48.8 vs 38.4%; P