The roots of alcoholism ... in the genes?
Young people often begin drinking alcohol because of environmental factors, such as peer pressure. But genes appear to be a significant factor in determining whether drinking progresses to problem drinking and alcoholism, according to a new study by researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.
The study of 3,546 female twins, ages 18 to 29, examined how genes and environment influence drinking at different stages of life. The researchers found that genes accounted for about 30% of the timing of the first drink and for about 47% of the speed at which women progressed to alcohol dependence. But environmental factors, overall, seemed more influential, particularly earlier in life.
"That's good news in terms of modifying these behaviors and reducing the risk of developing alcohol dependence," says the study's lead author, Carolyn E. Sartor. "Genetics are not destiny, and our findings suggest that there are opportunities to intervene at all stages of alcohol use."
Most of the young women in the study curtailed their drinking before it advanced to problem drinking, maturing out of the behavior as they encountered lifestyle changes such as career moves, relationship commitments or starting a family. Those who don't may have genes that predispose them to alcoholism. Heavy partying into the late 20s may be a clue that a problem is developing, Sartor says.
"What once was perceived as partying a little too much is now being recognized as a potentially serious problem."
A summary of the study is available online in the journal Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research. The full report is available for a fee.
*UPDATE: And here's more about young people and problem drinking. My alma mater, the University of Iowa, has announced it will schedule an additional 100 courses on Fridays beginning this fall to discourage students from starting their weekends on Thursday nights, which are also known as thirsty Thursdays.
University of Iowa administrators decided on the new schedule after a study published last year by the University of Missouri showed that students with Friday classes consumed half as much alcohol as those who ended their week earlier. Of course, faculty and staff members don't enjoy Friday classes, either, so officials offered each department $20 per student per class that's switched to Friday.
"It's not going to stop students that really want to go out, but the university is at least taking a stand," faculty member Mary Trachsel told The Daily Iowan.
-- Shari Roan
Photo: Thomas Unterberger / Associated Press
