The Burden of Obesity: Genes and Environment

The Burden of Obesity: Genes and Environment

CDC is working to implement policy and environmental strategies to make healthy eating and active living accessible and affordable for everyone.
CDC information: What do genes have to do with obesity? behavior, environment, and genetic factors all have a role in causing people to be overweight and obese
Did you know? 1572 genes have been reported in relation to obesity risk and outcomes, including 138 genomewide association studies. To find out more, visit the HuGE Navigator
Find out about genetic conditions associated with obesity, gene reviews and available genetic tests using the NIH Genetic Testing Registry
Gene × physical activity interactions in obesity: Combined analysis of 111,421 individuals of European ancestry
Ahmad S, et al. PLoS Genetics
Rare gene mutations suggest one more path to obesity, by Rebecca Voelker, JAMA News, Jul 18
Overweight? Maybe you really can blame your genes, by Gina Kolata, New York Times, Jul 18
Stop blaming genetics for your weight,  M Hart, Huffington Post, Jul 19
Obesity gene boosts hunger hormone, by Rebecca Bazeley, PHG Foundation, Jul 23

Strategies to Combat Obesity

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Learn About Obesity

• Adult Overweight and Obesity
• Childhood Overweight and Obesity
• CDC-TV: The Obesity Epidemic

Other Healthy Living Topics

Nutrition
Good nutrition is vital to good health, disease prevention, and essential for healthy growth and development of children and adolescents.
Physical Activity
Regular physical activity helps improve your overall health and fitness, and reduces your risk for many chronic diseases.
Breastfeeding
One of the most highly effective preventive measures a mother can take to protect the health of her infant is to breastfeed.

Healthy Weight
Staying in control of your weight contributes to good health now and as you age.

Data and Statistics

Obesity Facts, Surveillance Systems, State Indicator Reports, Databases, Maps

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Popular DNPAO Resources

• CDC and WHO Growth Charts
• Chronic Disease State Policy Tracking System
• Children's BMI Tool for Schools
• Adult BMI Calculator
• Child and Teen BMI Calculator

State and Community Programs

Learn about CDC funded state and community programs to prevent obesity and other chronic diseases, highlights and stories, state tools and resources, and obesity prevention recommendations.

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Spread the Word

• Social Media Tools
• Social Marketing Web Course
• Resources and Publications
• Obesity Fact Sheets and Brochures

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