Overview

• Researchers analyzed NHANES data from 1988–2018, reviewing 134,515 U.S. adults and identifying 21,872 with MASLD and at least one cardiometabolic risk factor.
• High blood pressure was linked to a 40% higher all‑cause mortality risk in MASLD, exceeding the 25% increase for prediabetes or type 2 diabetes and 15% for low HDL cholesterol.
• Each additional cardiometabolic risk factor raised the risk of death by about 15%, indicating a cumulative effect.
• Higher body mass index was associated with greater mortality among people with MASLD, showing a dose‑response pattern.
• The authors say the findings can guide targeted screening and management, note the study is observational and based on data through 2018, and plan follow‑up work on genetics, diet and alcohol use.