A new study reveals researchers have identified areas of the brain which are different in those who regularly smoke and drink alcohol. Researchers discovered the medial orbitofrontal cortex, an area of the brain implicated in reward, has higher functional connectivity in drinkers. In those who smoke, the lateral orbiotfrontal cortex, an area of the brain linked to impulsive behavior, has lower functional connectivity. The study suggests nicotine may increase overall brain connectivity, which may lead to increased smoking behaviors.
