Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory diseases are major global health challenges, responsible for nearly 70% of deaths worldwide. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3.4) aim to reduce premature mortality from NCDs by one-third through prevention, treatment, and promoting mental health and well-being. Addressing NCDs requires a multi-sectoral approach, including strengthening health systems, promoting healthy lifestyles, and ensuring equitable access to care, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Projects
Assessment of Community-Based Screening for Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease in Rural and Urban communities of South India
Dr Ashish Kumar Goel & Dr Asisha Janeela
This study aims to assess the prevalence of metabolic-dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic dysfunction with increased alcohol intake (MetALD) and to evaluate the feasibility and validity of community-based screening for MASLD using National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) strategies in rural and urban populations of Vellore district.
A community-based cross-sectional design will be used to screen individuals aged 18-60 years, excluding those with known liver disease or heavy alcohol consumption. A total sample size of 1,416 participants (708 rural and 708 urban) was calculated, using multistage cluster sampling of 14 clusters per setting, with 51 participants per cluster. Screening will involve Community-Based Assessment Checklist (CBAC) risk assessment, anthropometry, lifestyle questionnaires, and biochemical investigations, with MASLD defined using the Fatty Liver Index and cardiometabolic criteria. Participants at intermediate or high risk for fibrosis based on FIB-4 and NAFLD Fibrosis Score will undergo Vibration-Controlled Transient Elastography, with an estimated 20% (n~84) requiring imaging. Outcomes include prevalence of MASLD, MetALD, and advanced fibrosis, along with feasibility metrics and identification of risk factors. Qualitative interviews and focus groups will explore implementation barriers and facilitators. Findings will inform the integration of MASLD screening into existing NCD programmes and guide future scale-up.