Therefore, more emphasis should be placed on body composition and healthy lifestyles with less on body weight alone. Fat distribution can influence a person's risk of disease. Fat that is mostly distributed around the buttocks and thighs is associated with a lower risk of developing these diseases. As much as 50 to 75 percent of obesity has genetic influences. Just what those genetic influences are that affect body weight have not been identified.
Research points to differences in appetite control and energy expenditure.
It is important for obese people not to hold themselves responsible for their condition. Obese people should be evaluated for medical consequences of their obesity. Motivated persons are encourage to enter medically supervised treatment programs that use a multidisciplinary approach to weight loss. Such programs include low calorie diets, behavior modifications to change eating behavior, aerobic exercise, and social support. All rights reserved.