A proxy measure of genetic predisposition of drinking predicting alcohol use among female sex workers in China

Background: Scientific evidence has suggested that genetic factors accounted for more than half of the vulnerability of developing alcohol use problems. However, collecting genetic data poses a significant challenge for most population-based behavioral studies.

Objectives: In the current study, we aimed to examine the utilities of a pedigree-based proxy measure of genetic predisposition of drinking (GPD) and its effect on alcohol use behaviors as well as its interactions with personal and environmental factors.

Method: Cross-sectional data were collected from 700 female sex workers (FSW) in Guangxi, China. Participants provided information on a pedigree-based proxy measure of GPD and their alcohol use behaviors. Chi-square and independent t-test was utilized for examining the bivariate associations between GPD and alcohol use behaviors; multivariate and ordinal regression models were used to examine the effect of GPD on alcohol use. Likelihood ratio test was used to conduct homogeneity tests to identify effect measure modifications.

Results: Women with a higher composite score of GPD tended to have a higher risk of alcohol use problem compared to their counterparts (p<0.05). GPD was a significant predictor of alcohol use problems (p<0.05), especially among women who had mental health issues or lack of health cares.

Discussion: The pedigree-based measure provided a useful proxy of GPD among participants. Both FSW’s mental health and health care access interact with GPD, and affect their drinking patterns. By understanding the genetic basis of alcohol use, we can develop scalable and efficacious interventions that will take into consideration of individual risk profile and environmental influences.