It helps identify drinking damages.
A recent study has introduced a new blood test that can help doctors assess whether alcohol consumption is causing liver damage. This test measures levels of phosphatidylethanol (PEth), a byproduct produced when the body processes alcohol. The research, published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, reveals that measuring PEth in the blood could provide a more accurate understanding of a person’s drinking habits and the potential harm to their liver, compared to relying on self-reported alcohol consumption.
PEth levels in the blood are closely correlated with alcohol intake, and previous studies have shown that these levels can accurately reflect how much someone has been drinking. Heavy drinking has become increasingly common in the United States, a trend that worsened during the pandemic. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 24% of U.S. adults engage in binge drinking, with more than 6% being classified as heavy drinkers.
The study examined data from over 4,600 adults across four countries, including the United States, Russia, Uganda, and South Africa. Researchers found a strong connection between elevated PEth levels and liver damage, but noted that participants’ self-reports of alcohol consumption did not align well with their liver health. This suggests that people often minimize their drinking or may not remember it accurately, highlighting the value of objective testing like PEth in assessing alcohol’s impact on health.
The research emphasizes the importance of early detection in preventing and managing liver disease. Reducing alcohol intake and following a healthier diet can slow or even reverse liver scarring, but catching the problem early is crucial. Based on their findings, the researchers suggest that PEth testing should be added to routine blood tests, which already measure factors like cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
Experts agree that understanding a person’s alcohol consumption is key to managing liver fibrosis and other related conditions. Lead researcher Pamela Murnane from UCSF points out that current self-report methods are unreliable, making objective tests like PEth essential for accurately assessing alcohol-related liver damage and taking appropriate action to prevent further harm.
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