Evaluation of Anthropometric Indices and Liver Function Parameters Among Illicit Drug Consumers at The University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5530/ajphs.2026.16.96Keywords:
Illicit drug use, Anthropometric indices, Liver function, Hepatic enzymes, University studentsAbstract
Background: Drug and substance abuse are a global issue, causing mental disorders, death, addiction, and other hardships. The growing problem of illicit drug use among young adults has become a major source of concern, owing to the possible consequences for numerous aspects of health. Objectives: Hence, this study was conducted to evaluate anthropometric indices and liver function parameters among illicit drug users at the University of Port Harcourt. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional and analytical study design was used, employing well-structured questionnaires to obtain socio-demographic and anthropometric indices and blood samples were collected from ninety (90) participants (45 test and 45 control) for laboratory analysis of liver function parameters using standard operating protocols. Results: Results revealed that individuals in the test group had a slightly higher BMI (24.50 ± 0.71 kg/m²), hip circumference (39.09 ± 0.51 cm), and lower waist circumference (31.98 ± 0.56 cm) compared to controls. Notably, the waist-to-hip ratio (WH-R) was significantly lower in the test group (0.82 ± 0.01 vs. 0.86 ± 0.01, p<0.05), indicating a more favorable fat distribution. This reduction in WH-R was observed across weekly and daily users, all durations of use (1–3, 4–6, >6 years), and most drug combinations. Regarding liver function, the test group showed significantly elevated aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) levels compared to controls (e.g., AST: 29.92 ± 1.62 IU/l vs. 22.93 ± 0.78 IU/l in 1–3-year users, p<0.05; ALT: 24.55 ± 1.26 IU/l vs. 18.94 ± 0.72 IU/l, p<0.05). AST and ALT elevations were seen across all drug types, frequencies (weekly and daily), and durations, but albumin levels remained unchanged. Illicit drug use among university students is associated with a consistently lower waist-to-hip ratio and significantly elevated liver enzymes (AST and ALT), suggesting altered fat distribution and persistent hepatic stress, respectively. Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for targeted health education, gender-specific interventions, and routine liver function monitoring in this population. Longitudinal studies are required to establish causality and long-term consequences.
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