The effect of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease on the development of cardiovascular diseases

Background. In the modern world, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a serious health problem in all countries. This disease is becoming more common. Large-scale studies and generalized data analyses have revealed that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease may be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and their complications.

Objective. To review current publications and articles on the impact of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease on the development and course of cardiovascular diseases.

Materials and methods. As part of the study, materials from Russian and foreign sources devoted to this topic were studied and analyzed.

The literature was searched in databases such as PubMed, RSCI and eLibrary.

Results. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and chronic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction are systemic diseases. Every year the number of scientific papers increases, which indicate a close relationship between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and chronic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, an independent correlation has been established between the presence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and an increase in the risk of occurrence and progression of chronic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in the long term. In the Russian and foreign literature, there is evidence of a link between elevated insulin levels, overweight, the role of oxidative stress, impaired fat metabolism and damage to the inner lining of blood vessels. An increase in the amount of free fatty acids in the body can provoke the accumulation of lipids in the heart muscle, which can further cause problems with the functioning of the left ventricle. It is worth noting that changes in myocardial metabolism are associated with impaired energy processes in the cells of the heart muscle, a decrease in adenosine triphosphate levels, oxygen starvation of tissues and impaired electrical activity.

Conclusions. Oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, insulin immunity, endothelial dysfunction and adipocytokine disorders are the main factors that can increase the risk of chronic heart failure in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Taking into account all of the above, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease can be considered an additional risk factor for chronic heart failure.

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