There is evidence for a genetic component to the aetiology of alcohol related problems. An important way of elucidating this is to search for candidate genes which may show an association with these problems. We have examined for associations between ADH and ALDH polymorphisms, and alcoholism and alcohol related diseases. In Asian populations the ALDH2-2 allele appears protective against alcohol abuse and alcoholism, but may favour alcoholic liver disease. The ADH2-2 allele and the ADH3-1 allele seem to play a similar role. These findings deserve confirmation. Improved clinical methodology will be important in future studies.