Alcohol dependence (AD) is a complex psychiatric condition that is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. It has a lifetime prevalence of 12.5% and affects 4–5% of individuals at any given time in the United States (Hasin et al., 2007). It also impacts other diseases (Hasin et al., 2007). Based on twin studies, AD has an estimated heritability of around 50–60% (Kendler et al., 1992; Heath et al., 1997). Survey studies suggest that there may be interest in genetic counseling and testing to determine risk for AD (Gamm, Nussbaum, and Biesecker, 2004). More than half of individuals surveyed who had at least one first-degree relative with AD reported that they would undergo a genetic test to determine their own risk for AD if one were available. Many of them believed that testing would lead to better prevention or treatment and help assess their own children’s risk (Gamm et al., 2004). Current risk assessment for AD does not include genetic testing for common variants; the predictive value of genetic testing has yet to be determined. This research reveals a need for the careful evaluation of the clinical utility of genetic information for predicting AD.
