A cross-sectional study of serum B12 and folate level in alcoholics and nonalcoholics

Abstract

Introduction: One of the world's most important public health and global health issues is alcoholism. In terms of illness burden, alcohol is the world's third leading cause of death. Repeated alcohol-related issues in at least two of the eleven life areas that clump together over the same 12-month period are considered as alcoholism (alcohol use disorder). Moderate and heavy drinkers were separated into two groups. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional observational study comprising 25 moderate alcoholics, 25 severe alcoholics, and 50 adult individuals who were nonalcoholics. Data pertaining to demographics, clinical history including alcohol consumption and laboratory data were collected and recorded from the study participants. Laboratory data included parameters like hematological profile, serum Vitamin B12 and folic acid, liver function tests, renal function tests, blood sugar levels, and prothrombin time. Results: In our study, anemia affects 76% of severe alcoholics and 72% of moderate drinkers. Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) of more than 99 fl was found in 28% of heavy drinkers and 8% of moderate drinkers. The average Hb in heavy drinkers was 9.372.30. Alcoholics have abnormal red blood cell morphology, such as target cells, acanthocytes, stomatocytes, elliptocytes, and ovalocytes. Discussion: Alcoholism affects both men and women, but it is more common in men, especially in lower socioeconomic groups, in their third to fifth decade. Chronic drinkers are more likely to develop anemia, which is linked to the amount and duration of alcohol consumption. Severe alcoholics are prone to infections. Conclusion: Early detection and treatment of hematological abnormalities associated with alcohol misuse will help prevent future alcohol-related problems and reduce morbidity and mortality.