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Obesity is not a single disorder but a heterogeneous group of conditions with multiple causes each of which are ultimately expressed as an obese phenotype. Fatness does run in families, but the genetic component does not follow simple Mendelian principles and the influence of the genotype on the aetiology of obesity may be attenuated or exacerbated by non-genetic factors. Body weight is ultimately determined by the interaction of genetic, environmental and psychosocial factors acting through the physiological mediators of energy intake and expenditure.

Original publication

DOI

10.1093/oxfordjournals.bmb.a011613

Type

Journal article

Journal

Br Med Bull

Publication Date

1997

Volume

53

Pages

264 - 285

Keywords

Body Temperature Regulation, Cushing Syndrome, Diet, Energy Intake, Energy Metabolism, Humans, Hypothalamic Diseases, Hypothyroidism, Obesity