Why are some people, especially those of East Asian descent, less susceptible to alcoholism?

peasypod

"Some people, especially those of East Asian descent, have a genetic mutation in their acetaldehyde dehydrogenase gene, resulting in less potent acetaldehyde dehydrogenase. This leads to a buildup of acetaldehyde after alcohol consumption, causing the alcohol flush reaction with hangover-like symptoms such as flushing, nausea, and dizziness. These people are unable to drink much alcohol before feeling sick, and are therefore less susceptible to alcoholism. " Taken from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Effects_of_alcohol_on_the_body Sep 05 06, 5:34 PM