Lead Story: 

Shared genetic liability for alcohol consumption, alcohol problems, and suicide attempt: Evaluating the role of impulsivity 

Translational Psychiatry

This study investigated the extent to which shared liability for alcohol consumption and problems (ACP) and suicide attempt (SA) is genetically related to five dimensions of impulsivity. Common genetic liability to ACP and SA was significantly correlated with all five impulsive personality traits examined, and the largest correlation was with lack of premeditation, though supplementary analyses suggested that these findings were potentially more strongly influenced by ACP than SA. These analyses have potential implications for screening and prevention: Impulsivity can be comprehensively assessed in childhood, whereas heavy drinking and suicide attempt are quite rare prior to adolescence. Features of impulsivity may serve as early indicators of genetic risk for alcohol problems and suicidality.

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