Destine to be a drunk?

[Dougiefresh]

Here is something interesting I ran into :

 

 

Test targets addiction gene

 

 

 

BY WILLIAM SHERMAN

DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER

 

A simple test revealing genetic predisposition for drug and alcohol addiction will be available within the year and researchers are urging mass testing - even of babies.

The genetic marker is the A1 allele, identified by Dr. Ernest Noble of UCLA, and the test he developed is a swab of saliva inside the cheek later sent to a lab for analysis.

 

Citing statistics on teenagers and the dangers of substance abuse, Noble and other experts said that early testing - coupled with monitoring and education of those with positive results - can help reduce underage drinking and narcotics use.

 

"With the test we can get parents to concentrate and educate children on the problems of drugs and alcoholism when they're younger and more amenable to prevention," said Noble, professor of psychiatry and director of the UCLA Alcohol Research Center.

 

"It's like any other disease, and if you identify it early, like diabetes, you've got a better chance of defeating it," he said.

 

The patented test will cost about $35, said Noble, adding that kits are now being developed by a West Coast pharmaceutical firm.

 

His research was funded by a $1 million grant from the Christopher D. Smithers Foundation, of Long Island.

 

"The test is going to be very meaningful for education and prevention of alcoholism and drug addiction," said Adele Smithers-Fornaci, foundation president.

 

She noted that the research also showed that children of alcoholics are more likely to develop the disease.

 

"Once you've had this terrible disease strike your family you don't want to see it repeated, and this test is a terrific diagnostic tool," said Smithers-Fornaci.

 

Stacia Murphy, president of the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, said the test should be viewed as preventive health care.

 

"The test, the genetic marker, gives parents armor in dealing with kids when they're talking about substance abuse," she said.

 

Mitch Rosenthal, president of Phoenix House, the drug rehabilitation center, said, "There is no more valuable tool in prevention and education than early indicators."

 

"Noble has done the world a great service," he said.

 

Originally published on February 11, 2006

 

Interesting to think about some of the social and legal implications of this test.

 

[G-spotter]

I'm an addict man! Society made me what I am today....

 

Can I get a prescription for some red wine?