List the harmful effects caused by alcohol/drug abuse.

The effects of alcohol abuse are :

a) Deficiency of nutrients - Deficiency of nutrients such as minerals, proteins and vitamins are found in alcoholics. Low blood potassium, magnesium, calcium, zinc and phosphorus can occur in alcoholics.Vitamins like thiamine (B1), nicotinic acid(B3), pyridoxine(B6), folic acid, ascorbic acid(vitamin C) and vitamin A may be deficient in alcoholics. Thiamine (B1) deficiency causes Wernicke's and Korsakoff's syndrome.

b) Effects on brain - Alcohol is depressant to the brain. Alcohol decreases sleep and depresses rapid eye movement(REM). Cerebrum is affected first followed by cerebellum.

c) Mallory Weiss Syndrome - Dilute alcohol stimulates gastric secretion. Acute alcoholic intake can result in inflammation of the oesophagus and stomach.

d) Diseases of liver - Absorbed alcohol is carried directly to the liver, where it becomes the preferred fuel. There is destruction of hepatocytes and fibroblasts.The liver shrinks in size.

e) Increased cancer risk - Alcoholics have a rate of carcinoma 10 times higher than that expected in the general population.

f) Effect on kidneys - Diuresis is noticed after alcohol intake. Alcohol induced inhibiton of ADH secretion. Deficiency of ADH cause more urine output.

g) Impotency and Infertility - Chronic alcoholic men may show testicular atrophy with shrinkage of the seminiferous tubules and loss of sperm cells. Chronic alcoholism can produce impotence and infertility.

h) Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) - Heavy drinking during pregnancy results in the foetal alcohol syndrome which includes facial changes and mental retardation.

The effects of drug abuse are :

a) Nervousness and Psychosis - Prolonged use of drugs leads to nervousness and psychosis. Drug addicts neglect their studies, duty and bring frustration not only for themselves but also for their family and community.

b) AIDS and Hepatitis - Many drug addicts inject these drugs in their blood vessels with previously used needles. AIDS and Hepatitis-B are common in addicts using intravenous drugs.

c) Impotency, Chromosomal Aberration and production of Abnormal babies - Continuous use of narcotics and stimulants cause impotency and chromosomal aberration and production of abnormal babies.

d) Hormonal changes - Hormonal changes include an increase in cortisol levels, inhibition of vasopressin, reversible decrease in serum thyroxine and a more marked decrease in serum tripod other on one(T3).

e) Effects on kidneys - Functions of kidney of drug abused persons are impaired or maybe damaged.