Based on an evaluation of data from the Framingham Heart Study, originally conducted in the USA with over 12,000 participants who were monitored for 32 years, lead author and Professor of Medicine at Harvard University, USA Dr. Nicholas Christakis found that people were 50% more prone to consume too much alcohol if someone they were directly connected to drank heavily.

Likewise, those who were surrounded by non-drinking friends and relatives were more inclined not to drink alcohol themselves.

The study also showed that the farther the degree of separation from heavy drinkers, the lower the likelihood of drinking similarly oneself.

Dr. Christakis concluded, “We’ve found that the influence of your friends and people you have connections with can affect your health just as much as your family history or your genetic background.”

Many thanks, Dr. Christakis, Harvard University Associates and Framingham Heart Study scientists for your research showing that the people we surround ourselves with can significantly influence our behavior.

May such findings help us to choose good company and live happily intoxicant-free.

http://www.medpagetoday.com/Psychiatry/Addictions/19402  
http://www.webmd.com/balance/news/20100405/too-much-alcohol-friends-may-be-to-blame  
http://wellness.blogs.time.com/2010/04/05/how-social-networks-impact-drinking-habits/?xid=rss-topstories
http://www.usnews.com/health/family-health/womens-health/articles/2010/04/05/your-social-network-affects-
your-drinking-habits.html