The rumor that excessive and prolonged consumption of alcohol, especially adulterated alcohol, causes liver cirrhosis is confirmed by scientific research collected by AFC from specialists.
Circulating through word of mouth in various districts of Bangui, the rumor states: “Excessive consumption of adulterated alcohol causes liver cirrhosis.” This information is accurate according to health specialists, as cirrhosis is a severe liver condition characterized by liver dysfunction and the appearance of regenerative nodules.
Why is this information true?
To investigate this rumor and distinguish fact from fiction, AFC’s editorial team contacted specialists and conducted advanced scientific research to address this issue.
Verification:
Interviewed by AFC, Dr. Youssouf Oumarrou, a specialist in Hepato-gastroenterology at the Department of Medicine of the Bangui Community Hospital, confirms this information: “Alcohol is a major factor in liver cirrhosis, which alters the liver, making it hard and leading to severe consequences for the body, potentially resulting in death.”
Similar reactions were obtained from Dr. Kosh Komba Jess Elio, an oncologist and pediatrician: “In adults, excessive alcohol consumption is the primary cause of liver cirrhosis. Any high-degree alcohol negatively affects the liver, especially when consumed in excess,” he emphasized.
Further research, including articles from LE FIGARO in its health section, also supports this. The publication states that “abusive and regular alcohol consumption produces chronic inflammation of the liver, leading to the destruction of the organ.” This article from LE FIGARO was made public on February 2, 2019.
Liver cirrhosis is a serious chronic condition where the liver suffers cellular damage that turns into fibrosis. Ultimately, the liver cannot function normally, which can lead to severe complications such as nerve damage, esophageal varices, or portal hypertension. It can be caused by several factors, including alcoholism, hepatitis C virus, or hereditary liver diseases.
The rumor that excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption causes liver cirrhosis is verified. This has been confirmed by health specialists.
By Marie Paule Vopiade / Boris Zekema AFC
This article is produced as part of the AFC-Internews partnership funded by USAID. However, the content does not engage the responsibility of the partner.
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