3.3. Familial Susceptibility
Fetal alcohol exposure was a risk factor for alcohol, drug, and nicotine dependence among adoptees
when evaluated between 18–45 years of age. Other variables including adoptive parents factors and
peer influence were less statistically significant [17]. Increased risk of alcohol consumption among
adolescents 14 years old was found in those whose mothers reported alcohol consumption before,
during and after pregnancy. There was an increased risk of early alcohol initiation among the ones
exposed to greater alcohol use during pregnancy [18]. In another study drinking rates at 21 years did
not relate to maternal drinking during pregnancy after adjustment for demographics and other potential
exposures. The negative consequences associated with prenatal alcohol exposure were that it tripled
the odds that the offspring at age 21 will have alcohol dependence [19].