Unveiling the Genetic Link: Addiction Impact on Education

A study explores genetic variants influencing addiction and education. Higher addiction risk genes correlate with lower educational attainment, suggesting a genetic link. Conducted by Judit Cabana-Domínguez at Vall d'Hebron Hospital, the research analyzed 1,400 participants with substance use disorders. Results indicate further implications for health and socioeconomic outcomes.

A recent study has uncovered genetic variants that impact addiction and educational attainment in opposite directions. Researchers found that a higher genetic risk for addiction correlates with a greater likelihood of achieving lower education levels.

Published in the journal 'Addiction', the analysis revealed a striking 66% increased chance of substance use disorder related to these genetic links. The project, led by Judit Cabana-Domínguez of the Vall d'Hebron Research Institute in Spain, involved over 1,400 participants with substance use disorders such as cocaine, opiates, cannabis, and sedatives.

Utilizing a genome-wide association study approach, the research highlighted that the identified genetic variants also signal poorer health and socioeconomic outcomes. Although the findings show a genetic connection, they fall short of definitively explaining causation between addiction and lower educational attainment. The study's results underscore the importance of promoting higher educational attainment to develop preventive health strategies against substance use disorders.

(With inputs from agencies.)