A study on Avascular Necrosis of Femur and Its Risk Factors with Possible Alcohol Association in Tertiary Centre of Purba Medinipur – A Case Control Study

Abstract

Background: Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femur is a debilitating condition caused by impaired blood supply, leading to bone death. Alcohol consumption is a well-documented risk factor. avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femur, also known as osteonecrosis, is a condition where bone tissue dies due to insufficient blood supply, often triggered by steroid use. The prevalence varies, ranging from 3% to 38%, depending on factors like the underlying disease, steroid dosage, and duration of use. Objective: This study assessed the prevalence of AVN and its association with alcohol, demographics, and lifestyle factors in adults aged 25–55 years. Methods: A case Control study was conducted with 38 participants (19 AVN cases, 19 controls). Data on age, gender, occupation, socioeconomic status (SES), dietary habits (vegetarian/non-vegetarian), medication use (steroids), and alcohol consumption were collected. Chi-square tests and odds ratios (OR) were used for statistical analysis. Results: Alcohol consumption was significantly higher in AVN cases (OR=3.5, 95% CI: 1.2–10.1, *p=0.02*).Steroid use (OR=2.8, 95% CI: 1.0–7.8, *p=0.05*) and manual labour occupations (OR=2.6, 95% CI: 1.1–6.3, *p=0.03*) were associated with AVN. No significant association was found with diet (vegetarian vs. non-vegetarian) or gender. Conclusion: Alcohol, steroid use, and physically demanding occupations are major risk factors for AVN in West Bengal. Public health interventions targeting alcohol abuse and occupational hazards are recommended.