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Annals of Pharmacy Education, Safety, and Public Health Advocacy

2023 Volume 3

A Comprehensive Review of Metformin Use in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) with Insights from a Student-Based Survey


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  1. Clinical & Administrative Pharmacy Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Howard University, Washington, DC 20059, United States.
Abstract

This study combined a literature review and survey results from 41 first-year pharmacy students to assess their understanding and opinions on the use of metformin in the management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), achieving a high response rate of 92%. NAFLD affects approximately 25% of the global population and is commonly associated with conditions such as obesity, dyslipidemia, and type 2 diabetes, making it a major public health concern. Metformin, primarily used for type 2 diabetes, has received attention for its potential to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce hepatic glucose production, suggesting a possible role in NAFLD treatment. Survey data were analyzed using SPSS software, revealing demographic differences in knowledge and attitudes. Participants aged 18–24 years showed greater familiarity with metformin than older respondents. Female students were more likely to support metformin use in NAFLD and had a better grasp of its benefits compared to males. In addition, those who were employed and lived outside specific states showed higher awareness, indicating possible regional disparities in knowledge. Students with a 4-year degree showed greater familiarity with the role of metformin in the treatment of NAFLD. These findings emphasize the need for targeted educational strategies to address knowledge gaps and suggest incorporating NAFLD management into pharmacy curricula. Statistically significant associations were found between students’ demographic factors—such as age, gender, employment status, residency, and income—and their understanding of metformin, suggesting diverse educational needs across subgroups.


How to cite this article
Vancouver
Smalls T, Hailemeskel B. A Comprehensive Review of Metformin Use in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) with Insights from a Student-Based Survey. Ann Pharm Educ Saf Public Health Advocacy. 2023;3:58-65. https://doi.org/10.51847/wP3ernh0qg
APA
Smalls, T., & Hailemeskel, B. (2023). A Comprehensive Review of Metformin Use in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) with Insights from a Student-Based Survey. Annals of Pharmacy Education, Safety, and Public Health Advocacy, 3, 58-65. https://doi.org/10.51847/wP3ernh0qg

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