Which statement about obesity genetics is true?

Which statement about obesity genetics is true?

• A. Genetics determine obesity completely
• B. Obesity is a chronic disease influenced by genetics
• C. It has no genetic component
• D. Genetics have no role in response to therapy

Answer: (B)

Obesity arises from an interplay between genetic susceptibility and the environment, and it behaves like a chronic disease rather than a simple willpower issue. Many genes contribute small effects that accumulate to shape overall risk, and studies of families and twins show a substantial heritable component. At the same time, environmental factors such as diet, physical activity, sleep, and other lifestyle elements determine whether that genetic risk leads to obesity. There are rare cases of monogenic obesity caused by a single gene mutation, but these are uncommon; most obesity is polygenic with significant gene–environment interaction. This means genetics influence both the likelihood of developing obesity and how it progresses, and they can also affect how a person responds to therapy. Saying genetics have no role in response to treatment isn’t accurate, since genetic differences can help determine which medications or interventions are more effective for a given individual.

Obesity arises from an interplay between genetic susceptibility and the environment, and it behaves like a chronic disease rather than a simple willpower issue. Many genes contribute small effects that accumulate to shape overall risk, and studies of families and twins show a substantial heritable component. At the same time, environmental factors such as diet, physical activity, sleep, and other lifestyle elements determine whether that genetic risk leads to obesity. There are rare cases of monogenic obesity caused by a single gene mutation, but these are uncommon; most obesity is polygenic with significant gene–environment interaction.

This means genetics influence both the likelihood of developing obesity and how it progresses, and they can also affect how a person responds to therapy. Saying genetics have no role in response to treatment isn’t accurate, since genetic differences can help determine which medications or interventions are more effective for a given individual.