Genetics influence early initiation of alcohol use, while environmental factors play a greater role in differences in frequency of consumption once drinking begins, according to a Dutch study involving twins.

Science Daily reported May 7 that researcher Evelien A. P. Poelen of Radboud University in Nijmegen examined the role that genetics, common environmental effects, and unique environmental effects played on drinking initiation and frequency.

"It is often assumed that initiation of use is mainly predicted by social factors, for example, family norms toward alcohol use," said Poelen. "This study shows that genetic factors are also involved in early initiation and that is a new perspective."

The study was published in a June 2008 issue of the journal Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research.