Скачать или смотреть Understanding The Science of Addiction in Naperville

Educating the community on heroin is not new in Naperville, but Congressman Bill Foster took the lesson one step further.

By hosting a panel discussion on the science of addiction, he hoped to educate the community on the effects of drug addiction on the human brain.

Foster believes understanding what happens internally can help others view addiction as a treatable medical condition instead of a moral failing.

Scientists now know that addictive behaviors are based on changes in the dopamine levels in the brain when confronted with a drug.

Panelists who gathered at Edward Hospital for the forum included Nina Henry, an Addiction Specialist, Dr. David Lott, the Medical Director at Linden Oaks, and Dr. Bobby Kasthuri, a Neuroscience Researcher.

All are working to better understand how the communication between brain cells can help predict and treat addiction.

“It’s that pattern of communication that actually determines a lot about you, and your predisposition to addictions and what happens when you become addicted,” said Dr. Kasthuri.

Naperville News 17’s Alyssa Bochenek reports.