Aerobic and concentration training and allele 7 in the dopamine receptor D4 (D4DR) gene increase chances of smoking cessation in young Polish women

INTRODUCTION: One reason for the limited effectiveness of the available smoking cessation methods is the fact that the causes of tobacco addiction have not been adequately explained yet. Numerous anti-smoking programs aimed at women involve intense physical activity. The goal of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of health training for smoking cessation by young women in connection with the dopamine receptor gene (D4DR) in their genetic profile. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty-eight adult female smokers were randomly assigned to: 1) a concentration training group, or 2) an aerobic and concentration training group. Genetic and phenotypic data were obtained from 48 participants. Genotyping was performed for allele 7 in the D4DR gene. RESULTS: Individuals with allele 7 in the dopamine receptor D4 gene have two times greater chances (OR = 2.13: 95% CI: 0.91–4.96) of quitting smoking than individuals without allele 7. No statistical significance was revealed (p = 0.0805). Individuals undertaking aerobic training in combination with concentration training are three times more likely (OR = 3.06: 95% CI: 1.03–9.05) to quit smoking than individuals who do not perform aerobic training (p = 0.0439). CONCLUSIONS: The results of the study show that an intensive, 6-week health training program had a significant influence on smoking cessation. Smoking quitters, who are genetically predisposed and decide to take up aerobic training in combination with concentration training, have much greater chances of quitting smoking.