University research suggests individuals with greater sensitivity to bitter tastes are less likely to develop a dependence on nicotine than those with a lower sensitivity to such tastes. "If a person is a [sensitive] taster, then that person is less likely to become a smoker," said lead investigator Ming Li, professor of psychiatry and neurobehavioral sciences. "In other … [Read more...] about Nicotine Dependency Linked to Bitter Tastes
genetics and smoking
Critical Genetic Link Found Between Human Taste Differences and Nicotine Dependence
University of Virginia Health System researchers found that two interacting genes related to bitter taste sensitivity play an important role in a person’s development of nicotine dependence and smoking behavior. People with higher taste sensitivity aren’t as likely to become dependent on nicotine as people with decreased taste sensitivity, the researchers … [Read more...] about Critical Genetic Link Found Between Human Taste Differences and Nicotine Dependence
Genetic Achilles Heel May Support Nicotine Addiction
Do genes play a role in tobacco addiction? Recent studies suggest they may, particularly the CHRNA5 gene. A University of Michigan press release notes a genetic variation suggests a finding that may help explain the path that leads from that first cigarette to lifelong smoking. In the press release studies smokers and non-smokers to find if you have the less common … [Read more...] about Genetic Achilles Heel May Support Nicotine Addiction
Could Genetics Play a Role in Degrees of Addiction?
As a practicing hypochondriac it was of particular interest to me to learn about a research company in, of all places, Iceland, which is making what could be historic advances in medicine through the study of human genetics. This company, deCODE genetics, is exploiting a most unusual data base: that of the total population of Iceland where excellent records have been kept … [Read more...] about Could Genetics Play a Role in Degrees of Addiction?
Quitting Smoking is a Pack Behavior
Smokers tend to quit in groups, according to a new study. One person who quits can have ripple effects across his or her entire social network, prompting others to kick the habit. The New York Times offers this delightfully evocative explanation of how the process works: As the investigators watched the smokers and their social networks, they saw what they said was a … [Read more...] about Quitting Smoking is a Pack Behavior
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