Understanding liver fat buildup in obese teenagers across ethnic groups

Researchers at Yale University are trying to understand why fatty liver disease is more common in Hispanic obese teenagers compared to Black obese teenagers, even when both groups have similar weight and insulin resistance. This study will measure how teenagers' bodies break down and process carbohydrates and fats, using specialized blood tests and tracers to see if differences in metabolism explain the differences in disease risk.

Fatty liver disease affects about 30% of obese teenagers and can lead to serious liver damage over time. However, it develops much more often in Hispanic youth than in Black youth, even when obesity is equally severe. Understanding why these differences exist could help doctors identify which teenagers need early treatment and might lead to better prevention strategies.