The Role of Genetics in Overweight and Obesity

It is clear that genetics plays a role in overweight and obesity.  According to CDC, “Genes can directly cause obesity in disorders such as Bardet-Biedl syndrome and Prader-Willi syndrome.” (1) However, the extent to which overweight and obesity is a function of genes versus behavior, environmental factors or psychosocial factors is not clear. 

Overweight and obesity are complicated conditions that encompass genetic, behavioral, environmental and psychosocial elements. Genetics are thought to modulate an individual’s predisposition to gaining weight, difficulties in losing and maintaining a healthy weight, or the success of various dietary or physical activity interventions for overweight and obesity.

Genetic factors related to obesity are familial but not inherited in a simple manner.  For example, children of overweight or obese parents are more likely to be overweight or obese. However, this may be due more to environmental factors than heredity.  More research is needed to better understand the differential effects of genetics and environment on overweight and obesity.

Sources

CDC, Genomes and Disease Prevention: Obesity: A Public Health Perspective 

National Institute of Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Clinical Guidelines on the Identification, Evaluation and Treatment of Obesity in Adults.

Additional Resources

The Human Obesity Gene Map Database, Human Genomics Laboratory, most recent update is 2002.  Site provides a review of markers, genes and mutations of genes associated with obesity.

Medline Plus: Obesity:  Provides links to articles on obesity and genetics.

American Diabetes Association, The Genetics of Diabetes

(1) CDD, Overweight and Obesity Contributing Factors 

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