Can obesity be due to hereditary reasons?

Medically Reviewed by Checkmark Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Sravanthi Sunkaraneni
Just In
Can family history of obesity increase the likelihood of becoming obese?
Yes, genetic factors play a role in obesity. The relationship between many genetic factors and environmental factors governs weight changes in an individual. Therefore, poor lifestyle choices alone cannot be blamed for being overweight and obese. The variation in genes affects how an individual consumes and metabolises food, and therefore, the predisposition to obesity.

Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Obesity is a complex, multifactorial, and largely preventable disorder that is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors. In this article, we will learn if genes play a role in obesity and if it is possible for obesity to be caused by hereditary factors.

Is there a role of genes in obesity?

Yes, genes do play a role in obesity. Studies have shown that more than 50 genetic variations can increase a person’s risk of becoming obese. However, only in rare cases inherited obesity is caused by a single gene. Most of the time, obesity results from complex interactions among genes and environmental factors.

Genes, such as the FTO (fat mass and obesity-associated) gene, has been identified as a major contributor to obesity risk. People who carry certain variants of this gene have been found to have a higher risk of obesity and related conditions such as type 2 diabetes. Other genes that have been associated with obesity risk include MC4R, BDNF, and SH2B1, among others.

However, it’s important to note that genetics is just one factor in the development of obesity. Environmental and behavioral factors such as diet and physical activity levels also play a significant role in determining an individual’s risk for obesity.

Is it possible for obesity to be caused by hereditary factors?

Yes. Obesity is a complex, heritable trait influenced by the interplay of genetics, epigenetics, metagenomics and the environment. There is strong evidence to suggest that genes can contribute to a person’s risk of developing obesity. Studies have shown that children of obese parents are more likely to become obese themselves, suggesting a strong genetic component to the disorder.

Obesity is caused due to excess fat accumulation in the body. Expanding waistlines cannot be blamed on poor lifestyle choices alone. Genes instruct the body to respond to changes in its environment. Some studies provide scientific evidence that variation in weight is due to genetic factors. Other studies suggest that variation in genes influences behaviours such as a desire to overeat or metabolism that has an effect on obesity.

However, it’s important to note that genetics is just one factor in the development of obesity. Environmental and lifestyle factors, such as diet and physical activity, also play a significant role in determining an individual’s risk for obesity. It is possible to reduce the risk of obesity through lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity.

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

History
First published on:

More in

Questions
Fact Check
Interviews
Stories
Videos
Can family history of obesity increase the likelihood of becoming obese?
Yes, genetic factors play a role in obesity. The relationship between many genetic factors and environmental factors governs weight changes in an individual. Therefore, poor lifestyle choices alone cannot be blamed for being overweight and obese. The variation in genes affects how an individual consumes and metabolises food, and therefore, the predisposition to obesity.

Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can family history of obesity increase the likelihood of becoming obese?
Yes, genetic factors play a role in obesity. The relationship between many genetic factors and environmental factors governs weight changes in an individual. Therefore, poor lifestyle choices alone cannot be blamed for being overweight and obese. The variation in genes affects how an individual consumes and metabolises food, and therefore, the predisposition to obesity.

Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can family history of obesity increase the likelihood of becoming obese?
Yes, genetic factors play a role in obesity. The relationship between many genetic factors and environmental factors governs weight changes in an individual. Therefore, poor lifestyle choices alone cannot be blamed for being overweight and obese. The variation in genes affects how an individual consumes and metabolises food, and therefore, the predisposition to obesity.

Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can family history of obesity increase the likelihood of becoming obese?
Yes, genetic factors play a role in obesity. The relationship between many genetic factors and environmental factors governs weight changes in an individual. Therefore, poor lifestyle choices alone cannot be blamed for being overweight and obese. The variation in genes affects how an individual consumes and metabolises food, and therefore, the predisposition to obesity.

Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can family history of obesity increase the likelihood of becoming obese?
Yes, genetic factors play a role in obesity. The relationship between many genetic factors and environmental factors governs weight changes in an individual. Therefore, poor lifestyle choices alone cannot be blamed for being overweight and obese. The variation in genes affects how an individual consumes and metabolises food, and therefore, the predisposition to obesity.

Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

More in

Questions
Fact Check
Interviews
Stories
Videos
Can family history of obesity increase the likelihood of becoming obese?
Yes, genetic factors play a role in obesity. The relationship between many genetic factors and environmental factors governs weight changes in an individual. Therefore, poor lifestyle choices alone cannot be blamed for being overweight and obese. The variation in genes affects how an individual consumes and metabolises food, and therefore, the predisposition to obesity.

Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can family history of obesity increase the likelihood of becoming obese?
Yes, genetic factors play a role in obesity. The relationship between many genetic factors and environmental factors governs weight changes in an individual. Therefore, poor lifestyle choices alone cannot be blamed for being overweight and obese. The variation in genes affects how an individual consumes and metabolises food, and therefore, the predisposition to obesity.

Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can family history of obesity increase the likelihood of becoming obese?
Yes, genetic factors play a role in obesity. The relationship between many genetic factors and environmental factors governs weight changes in an individual. Therefore, poor lifestyle choices alone cannot be blamed for being overweight and obese. The variation in genes affects how an individual consumes and metabolises food, and therefore, the predisposition to obesity.

Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can family history of obesity increase the likelihood of becoming obese?
Yes, genetic factors play a role in obesity. The relationship between many genetic factors and environmental factors governs weight changes in an individual. Therefore, poor lifestyle choices alone cannot be blamed for being overweight and obese. The variation in genes affects how an individual consumes and metabolises food, and therefore, the predisposition to obesity.

Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can family history of obesity increase the likelihood of becoming obese?
Yes, genetic factors play a role in obesity. The relationship between many genetic factors and environmental factors governs weight changes in an individual. Therefore, poor lifestyle choices alone cannot be blamed for being overweight and obese. The variation in genes affects how an individual consumes and metabolises food, and therefore, the predisposition to obesity.

Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

- Advertisement -spot_img
Dr. Shikha Shiromani
Dr. Shikha Shiromani
A dental surgeon by education and medical writer by profession, Shikha is passionate to bring her knowledge and experience in busting the myths around medicine and health. At THIP, she is involved in researching, fact-checking and answering all kinds of questions related to health.
Read More