Heredity is a contributing factor. Children who have obese parents are 10 times more likely to become obese adults than children who have parents of normal weight. There is also an environmental factor because unhealthy eating habits may be reinforced in families. A few obese people have an imbalance of hormones. Emotional problems, such as depression, anger, and anxiety can occasionally be a cause.
Emotional problems can contribute to the obesity or can result from it.
Obesity is a more serious condition than being overweight because there is a greater risk for serious illnesses. Excess weight in all parts of the body puts an added burden on all body functions. If you are grossly obese, it will be more difficult for you to obtain such health care services as good physical exams, x-rays, and surgeries. In men, obesity can lead to increased risk of cancer of the colon, prostate, and rectum. In women, obesity can lead to increased risk of cancer of the breast, uterus, and cervix.