Epidemiological and clinical studies: Lipo-metabolic ultrasonography and prevention

Over the last few decades, obesity has become a severe medical condition worldwide, and a risk factor for many cardio-metabolic diseases. It is described as an excessive accumulation of fat in the body leading to other complications such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hypertension, dyslipidaemia, liver steatosis, and cardiovascular diseases [1]. In other cases, obesity may lead to many types of cancer (i.e. breast, ovary, liver, gallbladder, colon and kidney cancer) [2]. The journey from obesity to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and ultimately to cardiovascular disease (CVD) highlights a critical and interconnected health pathway. Obesity, a central feature of metabolic syndrome, significantly increases the risk of developing MASLD, a condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the liver. The presence of MASLD is strongly associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease, which remains the leading cause of mortality among individuals with this liver condition. Shared pathophysiological mechanisms, including insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress, underpin the link between MASLD and CVD. Addressing obesity is therefore crucial not only for preventing liver-related complications but also for mitigating the risk of cardiovascular events. Many approaches were studied to find a healthy way to lose weight and prevent and/or cure obesity-related metabolic diseases. Since the timing of meals during the day plays a critical role in losing weight besides the calorie deficit, physical activity, medical interventions, and surgeries, intermittent fasting, especially Ramadan intermittent fasting has been gaining popularity as a healthy strategy to improve weight and metabolic diseases.