PREVALENCE AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS OF ANAEMIA AMONG CHRONIC ALCOHOLIC ADULTS VISITING ADVENTIST HOSPITAL ISHAKA

Julius Nambajimana, Okwudili B. Nwankwo and Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu*

ABSTRACT

Anaemia is a common hematological complication among individuals with chronic alcohol use, often influenced by a variety of demographic, lifestyle, and clinical factors. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of anaemia among chronic alcoholic adults attending Adventist Hospital Ishaka. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving adult chronic alcohol users. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviors, and clinical parameters, including red blood cell indices and vital signs. Associations between these variables and anaemia status were analyzed using statistical methods to identify significant predictors. The majority of participants were aged between 20–59 years (93%) with an equal gender distribution. Most had tertiary (30%) or informal (27%) education and were predominantly farmers (40%). Urban dwellers constituted 65% of the sample, and 55% were married. Hematological findings revealed that 60% of participants had MCV values between 90–99 fL, 70% had MCH values between 30–39 pg, and 55% had MCHC values between 30–32 g/dL. Hemoglobin and PCV levels were within normal ranges for the majority (75%). Statistical analysis showed that older age (especially 60–79 years), male gender, farming occupation, higher BMI, and elevated blood pressure (Stage I and II Hypertension) were significantly associated with anaemia. Additionally, deviations in MCV, MCH, MCHC, and hemoglobin levels were strong hematological predictors. Conversely, education level, residence, smoking, and tobacco chewing had weaker associations, while alcohol quantity and frequency did not show a statistically significant relationship with anaemia. Anaemia among chronic alcohol users at Adventist Hospital Ishaka is influenced by a complex interplay of demographic, clinical, and hematological factors. Targeted interventions should prioritize older males, individuals with high BMI, farmers, and those with elevated blood pressure for early screening and management of anaemia.

Keywords: Anaemia, Chronic Alcohol Use, Hematological Indices, Associated Factors, Adventist Hospital Ishaka.