What is Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome?

According to the World Health Organisation, harmful use of alcohol accounts for 3 million deaths each year. Indeed, it’s the third leading cause of preventable death, and causes a large burden for societies across the world.

Of course regular alcohol consumption doesn’t always kill, but it can lead to other health problems, including neurological disorders. Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is one such example. It’s the combination of Wernicke encephalopathy and Korsakoff Syndrome. Both are linked to vitamin B1 deficiency. Alcohol has a direct toxic effect on the brain, which can lead to a lack of certain substances, such as vitamin B1, which is also known as thiamine.

What are the symptoms of this syndrome? How does it develop? Are there any forms of treatment? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!

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A Bababam Originals podcast. Written and produced by Joseph Chance.

First Broadcast: 24/1/2023

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