Mobile Ultrasound Screening Program for MASLD in High Cardiovascular Risk Communities in Rural Colombia: Initial Results

Introduction The global prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is rising. In rural Colombia, limited healthcare access hinders MASLD assessment and management. This study piloted a mobile ultrasound screening program in resource-limited regions to identify MASLD prevalence, characteristics, and risk factors in high cardiovascular risk communities, providing timely interventions to vulnerable populations.

Methods Under the UMM-UdeA GIZ-Klinikpartnerschaften program, patients from the Colombian cardiovascular screening initiative were evaluated in Leticia, Gómez-Plata, and Frontino. Risk factors such as hypertension, type-2 diabetes, obesity, dyslipidemia, and prior cardiovascular events were assessed. Hepatic imaging specialists performed liver ultrasounds, categorizing patients as high or low MASLD risk based on clinical history and ultrasound findings. High-risk individuals were referred to hepatologists for diagnostic confirmation and treatment planning.

Results A total of 278 high cardiovascular risk patients were evaluated. In Gómez-Plata (n=59; 39 men, 20 women), MASLD incidence was 55.9%, with 44% grade I, 44% grade II, and 12% grade III steatosis. In Leticia (n=100; 47 men, 53 women), the incidence was approximately 59%, mostly grade I, indicating early-stage disease. Frontino (n=119; 97 men, 22 women) had a higher disease burden, with 68% (n=81) diagnosed with moderate to severe MASLD (grade II or III).

Discussion Our study suggests significant regional variations in MASLD prevalence across Colombia, likely due to cultural, medical, or dietary factors. Understanding these disparities is crucial for developing targeted interventions. Future studies focusing on nutritional, genetic, or sociocultural determinants could provide valuable insights and guide personalized strategies tailored to each community's specific needs.

Publication History

Article published online:
20 January 2025