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Average alcohol consumption among patients diagnosed with liver cirrhosis: A cross-sectional analysis

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background : Alcohol-related liver cirrhosis is a leading cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. Risk and progression are dose-dependent and influenced by exposure duration and sex-specific susceptibility. Aim : To evaluate the quantity and duration of alcohol consumption in patients with alcohol-related liver cirrhosis. Materials and methods : In this prospective cross-sectional study (January 2022–December 2025), 548 adults with alcohol-related cirrhosis (Child–Pugh classes A–C) hospitalized at the University Emergency Hospital “Pirogov,” Sofia, were included. Alcohol intake was self-reported and converted to grams of pure ethanol per week. Results : The mean weekly intake was 339.66 g of ethanol (28.3 standard drinks). The mean duration of consumption before diagnosis was 107.72 ± 28.84 months. Alcohol intake differed significantly across Child–Pugh classes ( F = 6.62, p < 0.001), with the highest consumption in Child C. Duration of intake was also significantly associated with quantity consumed ( p < 0.001). Conclusion : Patients with alcohol-related cirrhosis demonstrate sustained high alcohol intake over prolonged periods. Greater consumption and longer exposure are significantly associated with more severe hepatic impairment.

Source: Pharmacia

DOI: 10.3897/pharmacia.73.e189496