Evaluation of Selected Biomarkers of Alcoholism among Alcoholics Residing in Diobu Area of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria: A Cross-sectional Comparative Study
Owo, Gogo James *
Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Enyindah, Kingsley Chimene
Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Obinna, Valentine Emeredike
Universite de Pau et des Pays de l'Adour, France.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Alcoholism has consistently been a significant public health problem due to its link with progressive biochemical and physiological alterations, particularly affecting liver function and metabolic processes.
Aim: This study comparatively assessed selected biomarkers of alcoholism among alcoholics and non-alcoholic individuals residing in the Diobu area of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, using a cross-sectional study design.
Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study involving 120 participants (80 alcoholics and 40 controls) was conducted. Alcohol consumption data were obtained using a standardised instrument, while venous blood samples were analysed for liver enzymes, serum proteins, and lipid profile. Data were analysed using independent t-test and regression analysis at p < 0.05.
Results: Alcoholics showed significantly elevated liver enzymes compared to the control group [AST: 45.6 ± 10.2 vs 22.3 ± 6.5 U/L; ALT: 38.4 ± 9.8 vs 20.1 ± 5.7 U/L; ALP: 120.5 ± 25.3 vs 78.2 ± 18.6 U/L], reduced total protein (5.8 ± 0.9 vs 7.2 ± 0.8 g/dL) and albumin (3.1 ± 0.7 vs 4.2 ± 0.6 g/dL), and altered lipid profile [TC: 210.5 ± 35.2 vs 180.3 ± 28.4 mg/dL; HDL: 35.2 ± 8.5 vs 48.6 ± 10.2 mg/dL; LDL: 140.3 ± 30.1 vs 110.2 ± 25.6 mg/dL; TG: 180.4 ± 40.5 vs 120.6 ± 35.1 mg/dL] (p < 0.05). Alcohol use was more prevalent among males, artisans, and individuals with lower education, with local brews predominating. Duration and daily intake were significant predictors (p < 0.05).
Conclusion and Recommendations: Severe alcoholism alters biochemical indices, particularly liver function, protein metabolism, and lipid homeostasis. Routine screening, public health education, and early intervention are recommended.
Keywords: Alcoholism, liver enzymes, biochemical indicators, lipid profile