New research in the journal "Nature Genetics" links several genes to a range of smoking habits as well as increased risk for lung cancer.
The DNA profiles of more than 140,000 people were studied.
A DNA code on one chromosome was linked with taking up smoking, and a variant on another chromosome was associated with trying to quit.
Researchers are hoping the study helps pave the way for better treatments and also lends support to the idea that smoking is not just a question of will power alone.
