To characterize polypharmacy patterns and identify clinical risk factors among adults ≥ 65 years old with metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).
Approach:
Study Design: Analysis of NHANES data from January 2017 to March 2020, focusing on participants ≥ 65 years old with MASLD.
Data Collection: Sociodemographic and medication data were collected, including polypharmacy and drug burden index.
Statistical Analysis: Weighted means and percentages calculated; logistic regression used to assess association between polypharmacy and age.
Key Findings:
39.8% of older adults met criteria for MASLD.
Polypharmacy rates increased with age among adults with MASLD: 36.9% (65–69 y.o.), 42.2% (70–74 y.o.), 60.3% (≥ 75 y.o.).
Adults ≥ 75 y.o. with MASLD had higher rates of polypharmacy compared to those without MASLD.
Interpretation:
The study highlights the increasing prevalence of polypharmacy in older adults with MASLD, particularly in those aged 75 and older.
Limitations:
The study is cross-sectional and cannot establish causality.
Data on medication dosages were not available.
Conclusion:
The findings suggest a need for tailored medication management strategies for older adults with MASLD to address polypharmacy.
