OBSESSIVE-compulsive disorder may run in families, according to new research.

OCD affects about three per cent of people and can result in sufferers performing repetitive acts or rituals, such as washing hands over and over or locking doors and windows in a specific order. Medics now reckon the condition might be passed downthrough our genes.

It's thought faulty neuro receptors could be responsible, leading to insufficient amounts of the brain chemical serotonin being produced. This chemical is needed for communication between brain cells.

Scientists hope the discovery could lead to new treatments.

Author not available, Bodytalk: It's a family obsession. , The Mirror, 01-16-2003, pp 34.