Be aware of the factors that contribute to obesity
Causes of Obesity
Obesity is considered a principal public health concern and is ranked as the fifth foremost reason for death globally. The global prevalence of obesity has nearly tripled since 1975 and continues to grow at an exponential rate. Obesity has become the number one lifestyle-related risk factor for premature death. Genetic causes of obesity can be broadly classified as monogenic causes that result from a single gene mutation, primarily located in the leptin-melanocortin pathway. Many of the genes, such as AgRP (Agouti-related peptide), PYY (orexogenic), or MC4R (the melanocortin-4 receptor), were identified for monogenic obesity 1 2.
Factors Contributing to Obesity
- The epidemic of overweight and obesity is fueled by economic growth, industrialization, mechanized transport, urbanization, and an increasingly sedentary lifestyle 3.
- Marketing practices of energy-dense foods and institutionally-driven declines in physical activity are alleged contributors to the obesity epidemic 4.
Childhood Obesity
Childhood obesity is a significant concern and can have long-term effects. Some research topics related to childhood obesity include the main causes of childhood obesity, the impact of childhood obesity on academic performance, and the role of parents in preventing childhood obesity 5.
Research Trends
The interest in obesity has considerably increased in the scientific community in the last two decades. A comprehensive diagnostic approach to detect underlying causes of obesity includes diagnostics, genetic obesity, hormones, medication, and secondary causes 6 7.
These factors contribute to the complex issue of obesity, and addressing them requires a multifaceted approach involving public health policies, lifestyle changes, and further research into effective interventions.
