Genetics ‘can affect odds of successfully quitting smoking’

New research from the US has shown that genetics play a large and previously unknown role in determining how likely a person is to be able to quit smoking.

The study, which was supported by multiple components of the National Institutes of Health, assessed specific variations in CHRNA5-CHRNA3-CHRNB4, a cluster of nicotinic receptor genes that have been shown to contribute to nicotine dependence and heavy smoking.

It was found that those carrying the high-risk form of this gene cluster experienced a two-year delay in the median quit age compared to those with the low-risk genes, as these people are likely to smoke more heavily and fail in their quitting attempts.

This demonstrates that individualised approaches to quitting strategies could be beneficial, as some patients are in greater need of medication such as nicotine replacement therapies to help them kick the habit.

Dr Nora Volkow, director of the US National Institute on Drug Abuse, said: "This study builds on our knowledge of genetic vulnerability to nicotine dependence and will help us tailor smoking cessation strategies accordingly."

The release of this report coincided with the week of World No Tobacco Day on May 31st, which this year focused on tobacco industry interference in global health initiatives.