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| New genetic test predicts obesity risk in early childhood |
New Genetic Test Could Predict Childhood Obesity Risk: What Parents Should Know
Obesity continues to be a major health concern in the United States, affecting more than 40% of adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). But what if we could identify children who are genetically predisposed to obesity before the condition develops—giving families and healthcare providers a chance to intervene early?
A groundbreaking study published on July 21 in Nature Medicine suggests that this may soon be possible. The research, conducted by over 600 scientists from 500 institutions around the world, analyzed genetic data from more than 5 million individuals. Their goal was to develop a tool that could predict a person’s likelihood of becoming obese later in life, based on their genetic makeup.
The study was part of a global collaboration known as the Genetic Investigation of ANthropometric Traits (GIANT) consortium, which partnered with the consumer genetics company 23andMe. Together, they created a genetic scoring system called a polygenic risk score (PGS). This score uses information from multiple genes to estimate a person’s risk of developing obesity as they grow older.
What Is Obesity and Why Does It Matter?
Obesity is a chronic condition characterized by excessive body fat, typically defined by a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher. It’s not just a cosmetic issue—it’s a serious health concern. The American Medical Association classifies obesity as a disease because it significantly increases the risk of developing other health problems, including heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, stroke, and certain types of cancer.
In 2021 alone, obesity was linked to 3.7 million deaths worldwide. And according to the World Health Organization, obesity rates have more than doubled among adults since 1990, while rates among adolescents have quadrupled.
What Did the Study Find?
The researchers developed both ancestry-specific and multi-ancestry versions of the polygenic risk score. These scores were found to be roughly twice as effective at predicting obesity risk compared to traditional methods currently used by doctors.
For individuals of European descent, the genetic score could explain about 17.6% of the risk of developing a high BMI in adulthood. That’s a significant improvement over existing tools, which often rely on family history and lifestyle factors alone.
The study included a diverse group of participants: about 70% had predominantly European ancestry, 14.4% were of Hispanic ethnicity with mixed ancestry, 8.4% had East Asian ancestry, 4.6% were of African ancestry, and 1.5% were of South Asian origin.
Despite the promising results, researchers caution that genetics is only part of the picture. Ruth Loos, a co-author of the study and professor at the University of Copenhagen’s Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, emphasized in an interview with NBC News that “obesity is not only about genetics.” She explained that lifestyle factors—such as diet, physical activity, and sleep—also play a crucial role in determining a person’s risk.
Why This Matters for Children
The ability to identify children who are genetically predisposed to obesity could be a game-changer. Early detection means that families and healthcare providers can take proactive steps to encourage healthier habits before the condition develops. This might include promoting balanced eating, regular exercise, and adequate sleep—all of which are known to help manage weight and improve overall health.
However, experts stress that genetic testing should not be used to label or stigmatize children. Instead, it should serve as a tool to guide supportive and personalized interventions that take into account each child’s unique needs.
What Can Communities Do to Help?
Addressing obesity requires a multifaceted approach. According to the CDC, communities can play a vital role by ensuring access to healthy foods, creating safe spaces for physical activity, and offering stigma-free prevention and treatment programs. These might include counseling, medication, or even surgery in severe cases.
Karen Hacker, director of the CDC’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, has previously stated that there is no single solution to the obesity epidemic. “Obesity is a disease caused by many factors, including eating patterns, physical activity levels, sleep routines, genetics, and certain medications,” she said. “This means that there is no one-size-fits-all approach.”
Instead, Hacker advocates for strategies that address the social determinants of health—the conditions in which people live, work, and play. These include access to affordable healthcare, nutritious food, and safe environments for exercise. By tackling these root causes, communities can help reduce obesity rates and improve overall well-being.
Looking Ahead
While the new genetic test is still in the research phase, its potential is enormous. It could one day become a standard part of pediatric care, helping doctors and families make informed decisions about a child’s health from an early age.
Still, experts agree that genetics should be viewed as one piece of a larger puzzle. Lifestyle choices, environmental factors, and social support systems all play critical roles in shaping a person’s health. The hope is that by combining genetic insights with practical interventions, we can better prevent and manage obesity—and ultimately improve lives.
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