scholarly journals Problematic alcohol use and reduced hippocampal volume: a meta-analytic review

2017 ◽  
Vol 47 (13) ◽  
pp. 2288-2301 ◽  
Author(s):  
S. Wilson ◽  
J. L. Bair ◽  
K. M. Thomas ◽  
W. G. Iacono
Keyword(s):  
Alcohol Use ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Hippocampal Volume ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Problematic Alcohol ◽  
Analytic Review ◽  
Males And Females ◽  
Clinically Significant ◽  
Problematic Alcohol Use

BackgroundA number of studies reports reduced hippocampal volume in individuals who engage in problematic alcohol use. However, the magnitude of the difference in hippocampal volume between individuals with v. without problematic alcohol use has varied widely, and there have been null findings. Moreover, the studies comprise diverse alcohol use constructs and samples, including clinically significant alcohol use disorders and subclinical but problematic alcohol use (e.g. binge drinking), adults and adolescents, and males and females.MethodsWe conducted the first quantitative synthesis of the published empirical research on associations between problematic alcohol use and hippocampal volume. In total, 23 studies were identified and selected for inclusion in the meta-analysis; effects sizes were aggregated using a random-effects model.ResultsProblematic alcohol use was associated with significantly smaller hippocampal volume (d = −0.53). Moderator analyses indicated that effects were stronger for clinically significant v. subclinical alcohol use and among adults relative to adolescents; effects did not differ among males and females.ConclusionsProblematic alcohol use is associated with reduced hippocampal volume. The moderate overall effect size suggests the need for larger samples than are typically included in studies of alcohol use and hippocampal volume. Because the existing literature is almost entirely cross-sectional, future research using causally informative study designs is needed to determine whether this association reflects premorbid risk for the development of problematic alcohol use and/or whether alcohol has a neurotoxic effect on the hippocampus.

scholarly journals Problematic alcohol use and hippocampal volume in a female sample: disentangling cause from consequence using a co-twin control study design

2017 ◽  
Vol 48 (10) ◽  
pp. 1673-1684 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sylia Wilson ◽  
Stephen M. Malone ◽  
Ruskin H. Hunt ◽  
Kathleen M. Thomas ◽  
William G. Iacono
Keyword(s):  
Alcohol Use ◽  
Study Design ◽  
Alcohol Exposure ◽  
Hippocampal Volume ◽  
Related Effect ◽  
Menstrual Phase ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Problematic Alcohol ◽  
Problematic Alcohol Use ◽  
Control Study

AbstractBackgroundAlthough there is extensive evidence that problematic alcohol use is associated with smaller hippocampal volume, the typical cross-sectional study design cannot determine whether hippocampal deviations reflect pre-existing liability toward problematic alcohol use or instead reflect an alcohol exposure-related effect. We used the co-twin control study design, which capitalizes upon differences within a twin pair in levels of drinking, to differentiate pre-existing liability from an effect of alcohol exposure.MethodsThe sample included 100 female twins, prospectively assessed from ages 11 to 24. Problematic alcohol use was assessed dimensionally and included indicators of quantity, frequency, and density of alcohol use and intoxication. Hippocampal volume was assessed using magnetic resonance imaging.ResultsProblematic alcohol use (proximal and cumulative) was associated with significantly smaller left and right hippocampal volume. Follow-up co-twin control analyses that partitioned individual-level alcohol effects into pre-existing, familial liability and non-shared alcohol exposure-related effects indicated that this association reflected alcohol exposure. Greater alcohol using twins had smaller hippocampal volume relative to lesser alcohol using co-twins, beyond effects of their shared genetic and environmental liability toward problematic alcohol use. Results held accounting for recent alcohol use, other substance use, externalizing and internalizing psychopathology, personality traits, trauma exposure, and menstrual phase.ConclusionsThe association between problematic alcohol use and smaller hippocampal volume likely reflects an alcohol exposure-related effect. Differentiating pre-existing brain deviations that confer risk for problematic alcohol use from those that reflect effects of alcohol on the brain will inform etiological models of addiction and further prevention and intervention efforts.

scholarly journals Association of Problematic Alcohol Use and Food Insecurity among Homeless Men and Women

2020 ◽  
Vol 17 (10) ◽  
pp. 3631 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lorraine R. Reitzel ◽  
Surya Chinamuthevi ◽  
Sajeevika S. Daundasekara ◽  
Daphne C. Hernandez ◽  
Tzu-An Chen ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alcohol Use ◽  
Alcohol Dependence ◽  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Short Form ◽  
Heavy Drinking ◽  
Alcohol Problems ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Homeless Adults ◽  
Problematic Alcohol ◽  
Problematic Alcohol Use

Food insecurity results from unreliable access to affordable and nutritious food. Homeless adults are particularly vulnerable to both food insecurity and problematic alcohol use. The current study examined the link between problematic alcohol use and food insecurity among homeless adults. Participants (N = 528; 62.7% men; Mage = 43.6 ± 12.2) were recruited from homeless-serving agencies in Oklahoma City. Problematic alcohol use was measured using the Alcohol Quantity and Frequency Questionnaire and the Patient Health Questionnaire. The latter used DSM-IV diagnostic criteria to assess probable alcohol use dependence/abuse. Heavy drinking was considered >7 drinks (women) and >14 drinks (men) per week. Food insecurity was measured with the USDA Food Security Scale-Short Form. The link between alcohol problems and food insecurity was examined with logistic regression analyses controlling for sex, age, education, income, and months homeless. Overall, 28.4% of the sample had probable alcohol dependence, 25% were heavy drinkers, and 78.4% were food insecure. Probable alcohol dependence and heavy drinking were correlated at 0.53 (p < 0.001). Results indicated that heavy drinking (OR = 2.12, CI.95 = 1.21, 3.73) and probable alcohol dependence/abuse (OR = 2.72, CI.95 = 1.55, 4.77) were each associated with increased odds of food insecurity. Food insecurity and problematic alcohol use are major issues among homeless populations; this study suggests they are associated. Future research is needed to shed light on potential causal mechanisms and on whether alcohol may take precedence over eating or food purchases.

Cessation and reduction in alcohol consumption and misuse after psychedelic use

2019 ◽  
Vol 33 (9) ◽  
pp. 1088-1101 ◽  
Author(s):  
Albert Garcia-Romeu ◽  
Alan K Davis ◽  
Fire Erowid ◽  
Earth Erowid ◽  
Roland R Griffiths ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alcohol Consumption ◽  
Alcohol Use ◽  
Clinical Studies ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
High Dose ◽  
Clinical Settings ◽  
Problematic Alcohol ◽  
The Usa ◽  
Problematic Alcohol Use

Background:Meta-analysis of randomized studies using lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) for alcohol use disorder (AUD) showed large, significant effects for LSD efficacy compared to control conditions. Clinical studies suggest potential anti-addiction effects of LSD and mechanistically-related classic psychedelics for alcohol and other substance use disorders.Aims:To supplement clinical studies, reports of psychedelic use in naturalistic settings can provide further data regarding potential effects of psychedelics on alcohol use.Methods:An anonymous online survey of individuals with prior AUD reporting cessation or reduction in alcohol use following psychedelic use in non-clinical settings.Results:343 respondents, mostly White (89%), males (78%), in the USA (60%) completed the survey. Participants reported seven years of problematic alcohol use on average before the psychedelic experience to which they attributed reduced alcohol consumption, with 72% meeting retrospective criteria for severe AUD. Most reported taking a moderate or high dose of LSD (38%) or psilocybin (36%), followed by significant reduction in alcohol consumption. After the psychedelic experience 83% no longer met AUD criteria. Participants rated their psychedelic experience as highly meaningful and insightful, with 28% endorsing psychedelic-associated changes in life priorities or values as facilitating reduced alcohol misuse. Greater psychedelic dose, insight, mystical-type effects, and personal meaning of experiences were associated with a greater reduction in alcohol consumption, controlling for prior alcohol consumption and related distress.Conclusions:Although results cannot demonstrate causality, they suggest that naturalistic psychedelic use may lead to cessation or reduction in problematic alcohol use, supporting further investigation of psychedelic-assisted treatment for AUD.

Impaired and Incapacitated Rape Victims: Assault Characteristics and Post-Assault Experiences

2009 ◽  
Vol 24 (4) ◽  
pp. 439-457 ◽  
Author(s):  
Heather Littleton ◽  
Amie Grills-Taquechel ◽  
Danny Axsom
Keyword(s):  
Substance Use ◽  
Sexual Assault ◽  
Alcohol Use ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Rape Victims ◽  
Self Blame ◽  
Problematic Alcohol ◽  
Assault Victims ◽  
Problematic Alcohol Use ◽  
Assault Characteristics

Alcohol is the most common “rape drug,” with up to two-thirds of victims consuming alcohol prior to the assault. Surprisingly, little research has examined the assault and postassault experiences of victims who were impaired or incapacitated as a result of substance use, including alcohol, during a rape. Thus, the current study evaluated the assault and postassault experiences of a sample of 340 nonimpaired, impaired, and incapacitated college rape victims. Results supported that these three groups differed in several assault characteristics, including threats by the assailant, resistance by the victim, and relationship with the assailant. In addition, impairment and incapacitation were associated with several postassault factors, including self-blame, stigma, and problematic alcohol use. Results also highlighted similarities in victims’ experiences, including levels of postassault distress. Implications of the findings for future research investigating impaired and incapacitated sexual assault victims are discussed.

Affective Risk for Problem Drinking: Reciprocal Influences Among Negative Urgency, Affective Lability, and Rumination

2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 42-51
Author(s):  
Emily A. Atkinson ◽  
Anna M.L. Ortiz ◽  
Gregory T. Smith
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Alcohol Use ◽  
Problem Drinking ◽  
Risk Process ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Problematic Alcohol ◽  
Recent Advances ◽  
Affective Lability ◽  
Problematic Alcohol Use ◽  
Risk Processes

Background: Affective disturbances have long been implicated in the onset and maintenance of problematic alcohol use. Affective risk theory for problem drinking has moved beyond early documentation that negative affect broadly confers risk to models specifying specific affectbased risk processes. Objective: This paper provides a theory-driven review of recent literature on the role of affect-based factors in the etiology of problematic alcohol use. First, we review recent advances in the understanding of affect-based risk for problem drinking. Second, we highlight the importance of three specific affect-based risk factors: urgency, affective lability, and rumination. Third, we offer hypotheses regarding the reciprocal relationships between specific risk factors and drinking problems. Finally, we suggest possible avenues for future research. Conclusion: Recent advances in the understanding of reciprocal prediction between affect-based risk factors and problem drinking have set the stage for important new avenues of investigation into the risk process. Affect-based risk processes appear to influence each otherover time, and they influence and are influenced by problem drinking. Further understanding of these processes will pave the way for a new generation of intervention strategies.

scholarly journals Meta-analysis of problematic alcohol use in 435,563 individuals identifies 29 risk variants and yields insights into biology, pleiotropy and causality

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hang Zhou ◽  
Julia M. Sealock ◽  
Sandra Sanchez-Roige ◽  
Toni-Kim Clarke ◽  
Daniel Levey ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Substance Use ◽  
Alcohol Use ◽  
Genetic Relationships ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
European Ancestry ◽  
Polygenic Risk Score ◽  
Genome Wide Association Studies ◽  
Problematic Alcohol ◽  
Risk Variants ◽  
Problematic Alcohol Use

AbstractProblematic alcohol use (PAU) is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Although genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have identified PAU risk genes, the genetic architecture of this trait is not fully understood. We conducted a proxy-phenotype meta-analysis of PAU combining alcohol use disorder and problematic drinking in 435,563 European-ancestry individuals. We identified 29 independent risk variants, 19 of them novel. PAU was genetically correlated with 138 phenotypes, including substance use and psychiatric traits. Phenome-wide polygenic risk score analysis in an independent biobank sample (BioVU, n=67,589) confirmed the genetic correlations between PAU and substance use and psychiatric disorders. Genetic heritability of PAU was enriched in brain and in genomic conserved and regulatory regions. Mendelian randomization suggested causal effects on liability to PAU of substance use, psychiatric status, risk-taking behavior, and cognitive performance. In summary, this large PAU meta-analysis identified novel risk loci and revealed genetic relationships with numerous other outcomes.

scholarly journals Association between anxiety symptoms and problematic alcohol use in adolescents

2013 ◽  
Vol 35 (2) ◽  
pp. 106-110 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marianna de Abreu Costa ◽  
Giovanni Abrahão Salum Junior ◽  
Luciano Rassier Isolan ◽  
Jandira Rahmeier Acosta ◽  
Rafaela Behs Jarros ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alcohol Use ◽  
Anxiety Disorders ◽  
Emotional Disorders ◽  
Child Anxiety ◽  
Anxiety Symptoms ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Problematic Alcohol ◽  
Young Subjects ◽  
And Gender ◽  
Problematic Alcohol Use

BACKGROUND: Anxiety disorders are highly prevalent, affecting approximately 10% of individuals throughout life; its onset can be detected since early childhood or adolescence. Studies in adults have shown that anxiety disorders are associated with alcohol abuse, but few studies have investigated the association between anxiety symptoms and problematic alcohol use in early ages. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate if anxiety symptoms are associated with problematic alcohol use in young subjects. METHODS: A total of 239 individuals aged 10-17 years were randomly selected from schools located in the catchment area of Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre. The Screen for Child Anxiety-Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED) was used to evaluate the presence of anxiety symptoms, and the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST), to evaluate alcohol use. RESULTS: One hundred twenty-seven individuals (53.1% ) reported having already used alcohol. Of these, 14 individuals showed problematic alcohol use (5.8% ). There was no association between lifetime use of alcohol and anxiety symptoms, but mean SCARED scores in individuals with problematic alcohol use was higher if compared to those without problematic use, even after adjustment for age and gender (29.9±8.5 vs. 23.7±11.8, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Despite the limitation of a cross-sectional design, our study suggests that anxiety symptoms are associated with problematic alcohol use early in life.

scholarly journals Genome-wide meta-analysis of problematic alcohol use in 435,563 individuals yields insights into biology and relationships with other traits

2020 ◽  
Vol 23 (7) ◽  
pp. 809-818 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hang Zhou ◽  
Julia M. Sealock ◽  
Sandra Sanchez-Roige ◽  
Toni-Kim Clarke ◽  
Daniel F. Levey ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alcohol Use ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Problematic Alcohol ◽  
Genome Wide ◽  
Problematic Alcohol Use

scholarly journals Relationships between inappropriate eating habits and problematic alcohol use, cigarette and waterpipe dependence among male adolescents in Lebanon

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jana Berro ◽  
Marwan Akel ◽  
Souheil Hallit ◽  
Sahar Obeid
Keyword(s):  
Alcohol Use ◽  
Disordered Eating ◽  
Eating Habits ◽  
Eating Attitudes ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Male Adolescents ◽  
Nutritional Deficit ◽  
Problematic Alcohol ◽  
Eat 26 ◽  
Problematic Alcohol Use

Abstract Background it is important to investigate the relationship between disordered eating in male adolescents and smoking and alcohol consumption as they are risk factors to other diseases as well. For example, high levels of alcohol accompanied by the acidic damage and nutritional deficit exhibited in people with disordered eating habits - due to induced vomiting - has been shown to increase risk of esophageal cancer. Considering the very few studies done on disordered eating prevailing in males and the prevalence of smoking and drinking habits, our study aims to investigate the correlation between inappropriate eating habits and one’s dependence on cigarettes, waterpipes, and alcohol all the while focusing on male adolescents. Methods This was a cross-sectional observational study that enrolled 389 male students (13–17 years of age) drawn from five Lebanese schools between October and December 2019. Results The MANCOVA analysis was performed taking the addiction scales as the dependent variables and the EAT-26 score as an independent variable, adjusting for the covariates (age, BMI and household crowding index). Higher EAT-26 scores (more inappropriate eating attitudes) were significantly associated with higher waterpipe dependence (B = 0.11; CI 0.06–0.17) and more problematic alcohol use (B = 0.08; CI 0.04–0.12), but not cigarette dependence. Conclusions This study revealed an association between inappropriate eating and increased drinking and smoking the waterpipe, but not cigarettes. The manifestation of inappropriate eating habits was found to be significant among male adolescents; in the literature, this is also true for female adolescents. In Lebanon, the engagement of adolescents in alcohol drinking and waterpipe smoking is frequent as they are accessible due to the lack of law enforcement and supervision in the country. In addition, while this study found an association between inappropriate eating habits and dependency on smoking and drinking, further investigation should be done on the role of one’s psychology in their exhibition of disordered eating as means to prevent the manifestation of these habits.

scholarly journals Korean University Students’ Problematic Alcohol use, Depression, and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury During COVID-19 Lockdown

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 ◽  
pp. 247054702110530
Author(s):  
In Hong Kim ◽  
Yeo Won Jeong ◽  
Hyun Kyeong Park
Keyword(s):  
Alcohol Use ◽  
University Students ◽  
Health Care Professionals ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Moderating Effect ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Self Injury ◽  
Problematic Alcohol ◽  
Problematic Alcohol Use ◽  
The Relationship

Background This study investigated depression, problematic alcohol use, and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) of university students in Korea during COVID-19 lockdown and evaluated the moderating effect of problematic alcohol use in the relationship between depression and NSSI. Methods In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 234 Korean university students’ data were used to analyze the relationship between depression and NSSI and the moderating effect of problematic alcohol use. To analyze the moderating effect, Hayes PROCESS macro (model 1) was used. Results Of the participants, 69.7% were problematic alcohol drinkers and 58.1% were binge drinkers. Depression and NSSI scores were 13.948 and 0.901, respectively. Of the participants, 33.3% had experienced NSSI for 6 months. Depression was positively associated with NSSI among university students. Furthermore, problematic alcohol use had a conditional moderating effect on the relationship between depression and NSSI. Conclusions Problematic alcohol use had conditional moderating effects on the relationship between depression and NSSI. Additionally, since the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing, to prevent NSSI, health care professionals in the university should screen students with problematic alcohol use and depressive symptoms.

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