Drinking patterns: biochemical and haematological findings in alcohol consumers in Ile-Ife, Nigeria

Effect of drinking patterns on biochemical and haematological parameters was conducted on 200 Nigerian men, categorized into non-drinkers (control), occasional, moderate and heavy drinkers, using standard techniques. Their ages ranged between 20 and 57 years. The values obtained for occasional and moderate drinkers showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) from those of non-drinkers based on their biochemical and haematological parameters. However, there was significant difference (p < 0.05) in the values obtained for heavy drinkers and those of other categories. This study showed that occasional and moderate drinking had no effect on biochemical and haematological parameters while heavy drinking had some effect. Some of the results in conjunction with the clinical history would also be useful in diagnosing and management of alcoholics.