- Cookey S. N.* & Wakama R.
- Department of Internal Medicine Rivers State University/Rivers State University Teaching Hospital
- DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.19024275
Background: Alcohol
intake has been implicated in various cardiovascular complications. However,
limited echocardiographic data exist on habitual alcohol consumers within the
Nigerian population. Echocardiography offers a non-invasive and reliable method
for evaluating cardiac structure and function. This investigation explored the
long-term effects of regular alcohol consumption on cardiac morphology and
function, focusing on residents of the Rumuekini communities in Rivers State.
Methods: Forty-eight adult males
voluntarily participated in the study, each completing a structured
questionnaire prior to echocardiographic assessment. Information on demographic
profile, drinking habits, symptoms, and clinical examination findings was
collected by a trained interviewer. Cardiac imaging was performed using an ATL
high-definition ultrasound system, adhering to a standardized protocol.
Measurements were compared with established Nigerian reference values for
normal echocardiographic parameters. Approval for the study was granted by
community authorities.
Results: The
participants had a mean age of 33.9 ± 16.1 years, average BMI of 23.83 ± 3.43
kg/m², mean systolic blood pressure of 129.8 ± 21.1 mmHg, and diastolic
pressure of 77.48 ± 13.9 mmHg. The reported average daily alcohol consumption
was 74.88 ± 45.5 units. Echocardiography revealed a mean left atrial diameter
of 3.48 ± 0.45 cm, left ventricular mass index (LVM/BSA) of 181.2 ± 284 g/m²,
ejection fraction of 61.66 ± 15.1%, and E/A ratio of 1.48 ± 0.49.
Conclusion:
Regular alcohol consumption in this population was linked to notable
alterations in cardiac structure and function affecting both the left and right
sides of the heart.
