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Genetics and Alcoholism
COGA notes that children of alcoholic parents, especially sons of alcoholic fathers, are four to nine times more likely to have problems with alcohol than children of non-alcoholic parents. While children born to non-alcoholic parents, and adopted and raised by alcoholic parents, are not at high risk to develop the disease. COGA emphasizes that those who are vulnerable to alcoholism based on family history are not completely powerless to prevent the illness from coming to fruition. People with a genetic disposition to alcoholism can begin averting the disease by staying away from underage drinking. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) says research shows that the risk for alcoholism is higher among people who begin to drink at an early age, perhaps as a result of both environmental and genetic factors. As adults, these individuals should keep close tabs on their alcohol intake or abstain from drinking altogether. The NIH recommends keeping healthcare providers informed of family history to so they may closely monitor patients to help them avoid problems with alcohol. It is important to remember that while alcoholism does appear to run in families, not all children of alcoholics develop problems with alcohol. COGA also encourages children of alcoholics to get involved with the ongoing research into alcoholism and genetics if they have an opportunity to do so. COGA, for example, has established research sites in New York, Connecticut, California, Iowa, Indiana, and Missouri. The sooner the genetic basis for alcoholism is found, the quicker medications and other preventive strategies can be found to diminish its impact. Related Information
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