What chronic disease may develop as a result of untreated substance use disorders?

What chronic disease may develop as a result of untreated substance use disorders?

• A. Heart disease
• B. Cirrhosis or end-stage liver disease
• C. Lung cancer
• D. Chronic kidney disease

Answer: (B)

Untreated substance use disorders can lead to cirrhosis or end-stage liver disease primarily because many substances, particularly alcohol and certain drugs, have a profound impact on liver health. Chronic and excessive alcohol consumption is well-known to cause fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and ultimately cirrhosis, which is the scarring and inflammation of the liver tissue. This process can continue unnoticed for years, especially in individuals who may not seek help for their substance use disorder. Furthermore, other drug use—such as inhalants or those that are metabolized by the liver—can also contribute to liver damage over time. Unlike the other options listed, which can be influenced by a variety of factors beyond substance use, liver disease is particularly tied to the metabolism and effects of certain substances on the liver’s function. This connection underscores the importance of addressing substance use disorders early to prevent long-term complications like liver disease.

Untreated substance use disorders can lead to cirrhosis or end-stage liver disease primarily because many substances, particularly alcohol and certain drugs, have a profound impact on liver health. Chronic and excessive alcohol consumption is well-known to cause fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and ultimately cirrhosis, which is the scarring and inflammation of the liver tissue. This process can continue unnoticed for years, especially in individuals who may not seek help for their substance use disorder.

Furthermore, other drug use—such as inhalants or those that are metabolized by the liver—can also contribute to liver damage over time. Unlike the other options listed, which can be influenced by a variety of factors beyond substance use, liver disease is particularly tied to the metabolism and effects of certain substances on the liver’s function. This connection underscores the importance of addressing substance use disorders early to prevent long-term complications like liver disease.