In a groundbreaking new study, scientists have found that weight gain and obesity are not only linked to lifestyle choices but also to specific genetic factors.
Researchers have identified more than a dozen genes associated with an increased risk of obesity — including five that have never been discovered before. These newly identified genes could help explain why some people are more prone to gaining weight despite having similar diets or activity levels as others.
The study, published in the journal Nature Communications, analyzed genetic data from over 850,000 people with ancestry from six continents. The research revealed 13 genes linked to obesity, of which eight were previously known, while five — YLPM1, RIF1, GIGYF1, SLC5A3, and GRM7 — were discovered for the first time.
Obesity is a major health concern worldwide, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and osteoarthritis. Scientists believe these new genetic findings could pave the way for developing more effective treatments that target obesity at the biological level, rather than relying solely on lifestyle interventions.
The researchers emphasized that while diet and exercise remain crucial for maintaining a healthy weight, understanding the genetic factors behind obesity could help create personalized therapies for those who struggle with weight gain due to inherited traits.
“This study highlights the importance of considering genetic diversity in obesity research,” the authors noted. “It brings us one step closer to understanding the biological mechanisms driving weight gain.”
