A Qualitative Analysis of Mexican-Origin Men's Knowledge and Cultural Attitudes Toward Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Interest in Risk Reduction

Mexican-origin men are at increased risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The purpose of this qualitative research was to assess Mexican-origin men's knowledge and cultural attitudes toward NAFLD and their interest in risk reduction. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 Spanish-speaking Mexican-origin men who were considered high-risk of having NAFLD according to transient elastography (FibroScan®) continuous attenuation parameter (CAP) scores (≥280). Audio recordings of these interviews were transcribed and interpreted in their respective language to facilitate data analysis using NVivo 12. A thematic codebook was developed, from which the research team identified emerging themes. Findings demonstrated limited knowledge about NAFLD and in general chronic liver disease among Mexican-origin men. Cultural attitudes appeared to both enhance and mitigate their perceived risk for NAFLD. Interviews also revealed high interest levels for reducing NAFLD risk, with family and loved ones acting as the main motivators for engagement in healthier behaviors. Inclination toward family-based interventions was reported as a subject of interest for this high-risk population. This qualitative study suggests that the development of a NAFLD-specific intervention approach for Mexican-origin men may be feasible and should consider a familial and cultural context centered in improving lifestyle health behaviors.