Neurocognitive Disorders and Their Factors in Chronic Consumers of Artisanal Alcohol, Tshitshiampa: A Study From Demba Territory, Central Kasaï Province.

INTRODUCTION

Chronic consumption of the artisanal alcohol, tshitshiampa, is widespread in the territory of Demba, Democratic Republic of the Congo. This study aimed to evaluate the cognitive performance of chronic consumers of this beverage and to analyze the factors associated with cognitive impairment in this population.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 202 chronic consumers of tshitshiampa. Alcohol consumption was assessed using the Fast Alcohol Consumption Evaluation score, and cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 27 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Logistic regression analysis was performed to examine associations between cognitive performance and various explanatory variables. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

More than half of the participants (51.4%) presented cognitive impairment. The most affected cognitive domains were memory, orientation, executive functions, and visuospatial abilities. Cognitive impairment was significantly associated with higher levels of alcohol consumption, lower educational level, and the presence of alcohol-related comorbidities.

CONCLUSION

Chronic consumption of tshitshiampa is associated with a high prevalence of neurocognitive impairment. These findings highlight the importance of early cognitive screening and the implementation of prevention strategies adapted to the local socioeconomic context.