Addiction is influenced not only by environmental factors but also by genetic predisposition. This session will explore how inherited traits contribute to an individual’s vulnerability to addiction, highlighting the role of specific genes associated with reward processing and impulse control.
In addition to genetics, epigenetic factors—changes in gene expression without altering DNA sequences—play a significant role in addiction. Environmental influences such as stress, trauma, and substance exposure can modify gene activity, increasing or decreasing the risk of developing addictive behaviors.
Understanding the interplay between genetics and environment can help in identifying at-risk individuals and developing personalized treatment strategies. This session will emphasize the importance of precision medicine in addiction therapy and the potential for future breakthroughs in this field.