Epidemiology and disease burden of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis in greater China: a systematic review

Background Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The increasing burden of NASH has become a major concern of public health in greater China. This study aimed to characterize the epidemiology, disease burden, and treatment of NASH in greater China to better inform national disease management and delivery of health services. Methods We conducted a systematic review searching four English databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Medline, and Cochrane Central) and three Chinese databases (CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP). We identified articles published from database inception to October 10, 2020 which reported NASH epidemiology, disease burden, and/or intervention in Chinese adults. Results Of 44,115 articles retrieved, 33 were eligible for inclusion. Overall prevalence of NASH ranged from 2.4 to 6.1% in greater China, with a more substantial burden among males, the aged, and those in Hong Kong and Taiwan. Most NASH patients suffered from several comorbidities, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions. PNPLA3 rs738409 G allele and haptoglobin 2–2 genotype drove the fibrosis progression in NASH. Increasingly prevalent cases of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma caused a higher NASH-related mortality. Compared with normal population, NASH patients experienced markedly poorer quality of life and heavier costs. Conclusion This is the first comprehensive overview of NASH among Chinese population that revealed an overwhelming impact of social and healthcare burden associated with the condition. Further high-quality studies are needed to improve the understanding and management of NASH in greater China.