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Alcohol dependence, binge eating may share genetic risk

Researchers today reported a moderate heritability of alcohol dependence and binge eating, and that both disorders may share a genetic link. The results were published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs.

"Our findings suggest that there are independent as well as shared genetic factors for [alcohol dependence] and binge eating in men and women," they wrote.

Melissa A. Munn-Chernoff, PhD, postdoctoral research fellow at the department of psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, and colleagues investigated genetic influences on alcohol dependence, binge eating, and compensatory behaviors, such as purging, in 5,993 Australian adult identical and fraternal twins. The researchers used biometrical twin models to estimate the genetic and environmental effects on the disorders.

 

Melissa A. Munn-Chernoff

Results indicated that 23.6% of men and 6% of women met DSM-III criteria for lifetime alcohol dependence, and about 11% of men and 13% of women met criteria for lifetime binge eating. Only women were assessed for compensatory behaviors, of whom approximately 14% reported two or more purging tactics.

According to the researchers, genetic influences accounted for 38% to 53% of the risk for developing alcohol dependence, binge eating and compensatory behaviors among the study population. Munn-Chernoff and colleagues said there was "significant overlap" in the genetic influence on alcohol dependence and binge eating, although the exact genes responsible were not determined.

"These findings underscore the importance of screening for both alcohol dependence and eating disorder symptoms in samples of men and women with the hope of better detection and treatment, as has recently been advocated by others," the researchers wrote. "It will be necessary for future research to elucidate the sources of common genetic and environmental influences so that they can be targets for prevention and intervention."

Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.