The Etiology of Obesity

Obesity likely results from a genetically predetermined body mass set-point that exerts control of body weight through alterations in basal metabolic rate. This set-point may be further influenced by learned eating behaviour, perception of body image, socioeconomic status and the availability of food. This article examines the complex etiology and pathogenesis of obesity from biological, sociocultural and psychological perspectives. Endocrine abnormalities and defective brown fat thermogenesis are also examined and found not to be primary etiologic factors in the development of obesity.