A cross-sectional prospective study on the relationship between serum liver enzymes and hypertension in patients accessing health care services at Nebbi General Hospital, Nebbi District.

Edimond Oyungrwoth; Geofrey Akiiki Salamu; Mirriam Akullo; Habert  Mabonga; Benjamin Wathum Oromcan

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i3.2062

Authors

Edimond Oyungrwoth Mengo Hospital Medical Laboratory Training School.
Geofrey Akiiki Salamu Mengo Hospital Medical Laboratory Training School.
Mirriam Akullo Mengo Hospital Medical Laboratory Training School.
Habert Mabonga Mengo Hospital Medical Laboratory Training School.
Benjamin Wathum Oromcan Mengo Hospital Medical Laboratory Training School .

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i3.2062

Keywords:

Hypertension, Liver enzymes (GGT, AST, ALT, ALP), Nebbi General Hospital, Nebbi District

Abstract

Background

Hypertension is associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and has a relationship to liver health. The objective of the study was to establish the relationship between serum liver enzymes and hypertension among patients accessing health care services at Nebbi General Hospital.

Method

A cross-sectional prospective study was carried out to evaluate the relationship between liver enzymes and hypertension in Nebbi general hospital between December 2022 and May 2023. Data was collected by performing laboratory analysis of liver enzymes and interviewing the patient about their biodata. The data was sorted and analyzed using SPSS for Windows version 25. The data analyzed was presented by using charts, figures, tables, graphs, and useful conclusions were made.

Results

The study analyzed data from 108 individuals and observed varying prevalence rates of elevated liver enzymes, ranging from 0.9% to 46.3%, based on different liver enzymes (ALP 0.9%, ALT 7.4%, AST 27.8%, and GGT 46.3%). The analysis of the data further revealed that all liver enzymes, except ALT, were elevated in females (P>0.05). Additionally, certain liver enzymes, such as ALT and ALP, were elevated in the age group 50-59 years, while AST and GGT were elevated in the age group of 60-69 years (P>0.05).

Conclusions

The current research findings align with previous studies indicating a relationship between elevated liver enzymes and hypertension. This current study suggests a potential link between hypertension and liver dysfunction, as indicated by elevated liver enzymes.

Recommendations

The study underscores the importance of monitoring liver health in individuals with hypertension and raises awareness of potential liver-related complications. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and clarify the clinical implications of these associations.

Author Biographies

Edimond Oyungrwoth , Mengo Hospital Medical Laboratory Training School.

Born on 14 July 1992, is a dedicated Ugandan medical laboratory professional from Congambe Village in Jangokoro Subcounty, Zombo District. With a strong passion for healthcare and scientific excellence, he has steadily built a career grounded in professionalism, competence, and service to the community. He holds a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Techniques from Mengo Hospital Laboratory Training School and a Certificate in Medical Laboratory Techniques from St. Martin Institute of Health Sciences, Munteme. He is currently advancing his academic career as a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science student at Muni University, where he is committed to deepening his knowledge in laboratory diagnostics, research, quality systems, and biosafety. His professional experience spans both public and private health institutions. He served as a Laboratory Technician trainee at Mengo Hospital for three years, a Lab Assistant at Nebbi General Hospital for two years, and a Quality and Safety Officer at Goli Health Centre IV for two years. He has also volunteered at Holy Family Hospital, Nyapea, and trained at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital. These roles have strengthened his expertise in clinical diagnostics and laboratory operations, biosafety, and quality assurance. He has supplemented his hands-on experience with additional training in medical logistics and supply chain management, biosafety and biorisk management, and laboratory quality management systems. His commitment to high laboratory standards and safe practices reflects his dedication to improving patient care. Beyond academic and professional work, Edimond is a humble, spiritually grounded individual who enjoys reading the Bible, preaching, singing, and playing football. These interests reflect his strong values, discipline, and community engagement. With a clear long-term vision, Edimond aspires to progress through academia and ultimately become a Professor in Medical Laboratory Science, contributing to research, training future laboratory professionals, and advancing laboratory medicine in Uganda and beyond. He can be contacted on Tel: +256 (0) 786115612.

Geofrey Akiiki Salamu , Mengo Hospital Medical Laboratory Training School.

He is a dedicated Ugandan Health Tutor and Laboratory Scientist, born on June 6th, 1984. With a strong foundation in medical laboratory science and health education, he has devoted his career to advancing healthcare training and service delivery in Uganda. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Laboratory Science and a Master’s degree from Mbarara University. Additionally, he earned an Advanced Diploma in Medical Health Education from Makerere University and a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Techniques from Jinja Laboratory School. Salamu began his professional journey at Ishaka Adventist Hospital, where he served as both a laboratory technician and clinical instructor. He later joined the Mengo Hospital Laboratory Training School as a Health Tutor, where he continues to mentor and train the next generation of healthcare professionals. An Anglican by faith and a family man, Salamu is married and a proud father of three. His life reflects a deep commitment to education, family, and faith, underscoring his passion for nurturing both professional excellence and personal values.

Mirriam Akullo, Mengo Hospital Medical Laboratory Training School.

A seasoned Medical Laboratory Technologist and a Health Tutor with over 10 years in clinical diagnostics and laboratory management. She is the Academic Registrar at the School of Allied Health Sciences at Mengo Hospital.

Habert Mabonga, Mengo Hospital Medical Laboratory Training School.

A medical laboratory scientist and a PhD fellow. Works as the Deputy Dean in the School of Allied Health Sciences at Mengo Hospital.

Benjamin Wathum Oromcan , Mengo Hospital Medical Laboratory Training School .

He is a native of Zombo District in the Northwest Nile region of Uganda and belongs to the Alur ethnic group. Born in 1972, he is a Biomedical Laboratory Scientist and Health Educator with over two decades of experience in medical laboratory sciences and health training. He currently serves as the Dean of the School of Allied Health Sciences and holds the position of Principal of Mengo Hospital Medical Laboratory Training School. Renowned for his strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills, Oromcan is deeply passionate about teaching, mentoring, and supporting others in achieving their goals. He upholds professionalism and adheres strictly to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP). Known for his resilience under pressure and ability to embrace challenges, he is committed to delivering high-quality client service in diverse and dynamic environments. He can be contacted via email at uromcan@gmail.com or benjamin.oromcan@mengohospital.org. ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0009-0007-2462-5637

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