Magnitude and factors associated with chronic liver disease among adults (≥ 18 Years) attending gastroenterology and hepatology clinics in selected public hospitals, West Arsi Zone, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

Chronic liver disease (CLD) is a growing global public health issue and ranks as the seventh leading cause of death in Ethiopia. However, regional-level data particularly from the West Arsi Zone are scarce. This study aimed to fill this gap by assessing the burden and key determinants of CLD among adults attending liver clinics, providing essential evidence for targeted interventions.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the magnitude and associated factors with medically confirmed CLD among adult patients (≥ 18 years) undergoing follow-up for suspected or confirmed CLD in three public hospitals in the West Arsi Zone.

METHODOLOGY

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to July 2022. A total of 384 adult participants were selected using systematic random sampling. Data were collected through structured interviews and medical record reviews. Multivariable binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with CLD, with adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) reported.

RESULTS

All 384 selected participants completed the study, yielding a response rate of 100%. Among them, 60.2% (231/384) were clinically diagnosed with chronic liver disease (CLD), with a higher prevalence observed among males (62%).