Genetic variation common to Caucasians increases alcohol related-cirrhosis risk

By Staff Writer

Caucasian alcoholics may be at a greater risk of developing liver diseases, including cirrhosis, according to a new study from German researchers. The findings underscore the importance for alcoholics to seek substance abuse help.

Typically, only about 10 to 35 percent of alcoholics acquire liver inflammation. An even smaller number go on to develop full blown cirrhosis.

However, researchers from Christian-Albrechts-Universität Kiel found that a genetic variation that is most common in Caucasians causes a higher risk of acquiring the condition. In fact, after conducting genetic testing on more than 1,000 alcoholics, they found that individuals who have this particular variation have a 25 to 50 percent chance of developing cirrhosis.

Researchers said that individuals who have been shown by genetic testing to carry the genetic susceptibility to cirrhosis should take extra steps to avoid excess alcohol consumption.

However, for those who are already dependent on alcohol, substance abuse help may enable them to kick their habit and reduce their cirrhosis risk.