Full text is available at the source.
Abstract
Children with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) experience significant mental health challenges, including elevated rates of depression and anxiety.
- MASLD is linked to obesity and insulin resistance, making it the most common chronic liver disease in children.
- Affected children often face a mental health burden that includes disordered eating and impaired quality of life.
- Bidirectional mechanisms connect metabolic dysfunction with psychological distress, involving neuroendocrine and inflammatory processes.
- Social determinants and systemic barriers influence health outcomes for children with MASLD.
- Emerging treatments may have implications for psychological health that require careful monitoring.
- Recognizing MASLD as a biopsychosocial condition could enhance both liver and mental health management.
Simplified