ROSH Gastrointestinal Practice Exam

What is the most common form of liver disease in the United States?

1. Hepatitis A

2. Hepatitis B

3. Hepatitis C

4. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

The correct answer is: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is indeed the most common form of liver disease in the United States. This condition is characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver of individuals who consume little to no alcohol. NAFLD encompasses a spectrum of liver conditions, ranging from simple steatosis, which is the presence of excess fat in the liver, to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which includes inflammation and can progress to more severe liver damage, such as fibrosis or cirrhosis. The rise in NAFLD prevalence is largely attributed to the increasing rates of obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome in the population. These factors contribute to the development of excessive fat deposition in liver cells, making NAFLD a significant public health concern. In contrast, conditions like Hepatitis A, B, and C primarily result from viral infections, and while they can lead to liver disease, their prevalence is lower compared to the widespread incidence of fatty liver disease, particularly in the context of a population with rising obesity rates. Furthermore, effective vaccination programs and treatments have also reduced the impact of viral hepatitis compared to the escalating issue of NAFLD.