Low 2D:4D in Alcohol Dependent Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Kornhuber Johannes, Erhard Gabriele, Lenz Bernd, Kraus Thomas, Sperling Wolfgang, Bayerlein Kristina, Biermann Teresa, Stoessel Christina
Primary Institution: Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg
Hypothesis
We hypothesized low 2D:4D in patients with alcohol dependency.
Conclusion
Alcohol dependent patients have smaller 2D:4D ratios compared to controls, suggesting a link between prenatal androgen exposure and alcohol dependency.
Supporting Evidence
- Alcohol dependent patients had smaller 2D:4D ratios compared to controls.
- The right hand 2D:4D ratio was the most accurate for detecting alcohol dependency.
- Low 2D:4D ratios are associated with higher prenatal testosterone exposure.
Takeaway
This study found that people who are dependent on alcohol tend to have shorter fingers compared to those who are not, which might be related to how much testosterone they were exposed to before they were born.
Methodology
The study measured the 2D:4D ratios of 131 alcohol dependent patients and 185 healthy volunteers using hand scans.
Potential Biases
The control group may have included individuals with moderate to heavy alcohol consumption, potentially affecting the results.
Limitations
The study used a case control design without a matched sample approach and did not evaluate alcohol consumption in the control group.
Participant Demographics
131 patients (87 males, 44 females; median age 46.4) and 185 controls (83 males, 102 females; median age 37.5).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website