Focus on behavior in alcoholism battle

Regarding “Many Genes Play Role in Alcoholism” [Nov. 15]: Instead of blaming our ancestors, let’s take a good look at why heavy drinking is acceptable behavior. We are bombarded by alcohol images, messages and substances every day. Heavy drinking is an essential part of socializing and drowning our sorrow with booze is a common remedy for depression.

While designing drugs to curb alcohol cravings is a significant and immediate treatment, it is more important to dissuade people from heavy drinking. Long-term prevention requires us to end our codependent relationship with alcohol.

Efforts should focus on banning youth-targeted advertising, enforcing penalties for selling alcohol to minors, increasing the price of beer and liquor, limiting the number of liquor outlets in low income areas and eliminating happy hour drink specials.

When this is accomplished, no matter what your genetic makeup, you will be more inclined to cut yourself off or not order that drink in the first place.

Lisa Goldberg

Oakland