The scientists analyzed the genetic data of Russians and found that 10% of the population had the highest tendency to use tobacco. This is noted in the study of the medical genetics center Genotek.
According to experts, the reason for this lies in polymorphic changes in the CHRNA5 gene, which affects the rapid emergence of nicotine addiction and an increased risk of developing lung cancer. Experts say that it is more difficult for people with such a gene to cope with a bad habit on their own.
The results of the study show that the predisposition to smoking is not only transmitted genetically (more often in combinations of “father-son” and “mother-daughter”), but also by the social environment and corresponding lifestyle. According to geneticists, thanks to a genetic study that will help evaluate the effectiveness of certain drugs, it is possible to evaluate the ability to quit smoking without the participation of specialists and drug therapy, as well as with the support of certain drugs. in advance.
The scientists emphasized that the mechanism of the effect of mutations in the CHRNA5 gene on the development of bad habits has not yet been determined.
Former oncologist Ivan Karasev named Smoking and doing it wrong are the two main causes of cancer development.