Development and validation of a non-invasive prediction model for identifying high-risk children with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in pediatric populations and establish a novel health index scoring system derived from key risk parameters for early identification of high-risk children with MAFLD.

Method: In this cross-sectional study, a systematic random sampling method was employed to recruit children (6-18 years) with MAFLD. Data collection involved standardized questionnaires and comprehensive anthropometric measurements.