Study reveals drug addicts may possess fewer important neurons than non-drug users

Research from the Brookhaven National Laboratory finds that drug addicts have a certain genetic makeup that can make them more susceptible to abusing illegal substances, according to U.S. News and World Report.

The study reveals that drug addicts may have lower gray matter density, which means they possess fewer neurons in the brain that are crucial for decision-making, self-control, learning and memory.

Researchers noted that additional studies are needed before they can suggest treatment strategies that could effectively aid these individuals. However, boarding schools for troubled teens can provide a drug-free environment that can help substance abusers overcome their addiction.

The study examined 40 men addicted to cocaine and 42 males who had no history of drug use. Researchers found that the longer a person abuses cocaine, alcohol and cigarettes, the lower amount of gray matter in the frontal areas of the brain and the hippocampus.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, nearly 6 percent of high school seniors used cocaine at some point during their lifetime.