Fatty Liver and Hyperuricemia in Workers: Combined Effects on Metabolic Dysfunction and the Role of Lifestyle Factors

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Fatty liver and hyperuricemia are growing public health concerns linked to unhealthy lifestyles, yet their combined effects in working populations remain underexplored. This study investigates their associations with metabolic risk factors, inflammation, and liver dysfunction to inform workplace health strategies. Methods: The participants were employees aged 20 or older from four industrial enterprises located in central Taiwan. A total of 3089 participants (2571 males, 518 females) were analyzed. Lifestyle factors were assessed via a self-administered questionnaire, fatty liver was diagnosed using ultrasound, and serum uric acid levels, metabolic parameters, inflammatory markers, and liver function were measured. Results: The prevalence of fatty liver (43.2%) exceeded that of hyperuricemia (25.5%), with a higher burden among males. Fatty liver was associated with lower physical activity, while alcohol consumption was significantly higher in individuals with both conditions. Both conditions correlated with increased metabolic risk factors, liver dysfunction, and inflammation. Health-related risk factors were compared across four groups, using Group A (no hyperuricemia/no fatty liver, OR = 1.00) as the reference. The risk of metabolic syndrome increased progressively: 2.90 (Group B: hyperuricemia/no fatty liver), 6.15 (Group C: no hyperuricemia/fatty liver), and 11.52 (Group D: hyperuricemia/fatty liver), following the trend A < B < C < D. Notably, Group D had the highest risk, with exacerbated inflammation and liver dysfunction. Conclusions: Fatty liver and hyperuricemia synergistically worsen metabolic disorders, inflammation, and liver dysfunction. Early detection and lifestyle interventions are crucial to mitigating long-term health risks.