The “Asian flush syndrome”: ALDH2 Deficiency and Long-term Health Consequences

Abstract

Harmful use of alcohol leads to roughly 3 million deaths worldwide every year, and is linked to the development of roughly 230 different types of disease (World Health Organization, 2016). As alcohol has the ability to diffuse through cell membranes, its toxicity can heavily impact almost all organs within the human body. A large proportion of the East Asian population experiences the “Asian flush syndrome” post-drinking, which induces characteristic facial-flushing symptoms caused by an aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH2) enzyme deficiency due to an ALDH2 gene mutation. In the past, investigations on links between ALDH2 deficiencies and long-term health consequences have been conducted with conclusive evidence that confirm that “Asian flushers'' have a predisposed risk for various diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular disease. This literature review systematically compiles research that explains the mechanisms behind ALDH2 deficient communities and increased health risks to esophageal cancer, cardiovascular disease, and Alzhiemer’s disease. Furthermore, it shows that risk levels for disease are compounded when alcohol intake is increased. The preventative measures and social factors are also considered, including recommendations for further interventions to increase awareness and decrease alcohol intake in affected individuals.