This study aimed to compare the clinical characteristics and risk factors of alcoholism between the active and inactive forms of mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) in elderly persons. The study sample consisted of 205 persons with the active form of ALDH2 and 79 persons with the inactive form of ALDH2. Data on alcohol related and socio-demographic characteristics, reports on physical illnesses, clinical diagnosis of alcoholism, and blood sample for ALDH2 genotype and physical status were obtained. There were no significant differences between the active and inactive forms of ALDH2 in terms of the clinical characteristics of alcoholism. In those with active form of ALDH2, no religious observation, having occupation and family history of alcoholism were identified as independent risk factors of alcoholism. However, any variable was identified as independent risk factors of alcoholism in those with inactive form of ALDH2. It was suggested that different preventive strategies for alcoholism might be needed according to the ALDH2 polymorphism.
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