Obesity among some individuals could be linked to genes: Research
A new study suggests there are more genetic links to obesity than earlier considered. Most of the times, overweight adults are criticized for lifestyle and behavioral options they have adopted over time. But, the new research suggests that the reason behind overweight or obesity could be genetic. According to researchers, diet and exercise play important role in keeping the weight in control. However, genes should also be considered for their role in obesity.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has reported that over one-third of United States adults are obese. Obesity among higher percentage of school going kids has been noticed during the recent years.
According to researchers, the findings might aid to examine why some persons are more likely than others to gain weight. The new paper appeared in the journal Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology. In first few months, some patients may lose their weight in a weight-loss program but finally 80 to 95% regain the weight.
Obesity treatment experts are putting efforts to identify the particular genes that are contributing to obesity. According to CBS News reports, the proteins that are produced by the genes may suggest targets for the development of new drugs to fight obesity.
“Although lifestyle modifications may result in lasting weight loss in individuals who are overweight, in those with chronic obesity, body weight seems to become biologically ‘stamped in’ and defended”, said Dr. Christopher Ochner, lead author and Assistant Professor of Pediatrics and Psychiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine.
According to researchers, they hope that they will get to the cause of the problem by finding out which genes influence where fat is deposited. According to CDC, conditions related to obesity involve heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke and certain types of cancer. The researchers said that by examining obesity research in depth, experts are confident to figure out the underlying factors that ideally lead to more effective treatment.
