Investigation of Hepatic and Renal Parameters Content in Blood Samples of Snuff Addicted Individuals in Gusau Metropolis

Abstract

In Nigeria, the use of dry nasal snuff is spreading considerably throughout all age groups in both rural and urban areas. This is due to various ethno-cultural beliefs that have not been scientifically confirmed. Various people do not realize the negative impact of snuff on one's health, such as liver and kidneys failure, elevation of blood pressure, and a higher chance of oral cancer. The hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity of the local nasal snuff on snuff addicted individual was poorly understood. This study was carried out on snuff addicted individuals to assess hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity of the local nasal snuff. One hundred and fifty individuals used in the study were group into three of fifty people each. Group one served as a control which include individuals who never use snuff, Groups two and three comprise individuals who are addicted to snuff, with ages ranging from 18 to 30, and above thirty, respectively. The hepatotoxicity study revealed that, there were significant (p<0.05) increase in concentration of  ALT, AST, Total Bilirubin and Direct Bilirubin of group two and group three compared with control. The concentration of ALT, AST, Total Bilirubin and Direct Bilirubin of group three were also significantly (p<0.05) higher than that of group two. While there were significant (p<0.05) decrease in concentration of total protein and albumin in group two and three compared with control. The nephrotoxicity study revealed that, there were significant (p<0.05) increase in concentration of creatinine of group two and group three compared with control. The concentration of creatinine in group three was even significantly higher than that of group two. Whereas, there were significant (p<0.05) decrease in concentration of Urea, Sodium, Potassium and Chlorine in group two and three compared with control. This study was concluded that, there was health risks (Hepatotoxicity and Nephrotoxicity) associated with snuff addiction.