The New York Times article titled “Obesity Prediction Could Be Guided by Genetic Risk Scores” explains the new hope that genetic technology may be beneficial in determining individuals who are most at risk for obesity. The article explains basic connections between people based on both genetics and environment. For example, identical twins tend to have the same Body Mass Index regardless of their proximity in relationship. This shows that genetics plays a greater role in determining obesity than an individual's environment does. However, determining which genes are precursors for obesity proves to be a challenge. Kolata explains that it isn't just one or a couple of genes that play a role in obesity, but rather thousands that work together. A study including a population of 5 million people was used to create an obesity risk score, also known as a polygenic risk score. Combining gene variants, this technology is used to determine the body mass index of individuals. This study is expected to be a useful tool for doctors internationally in determining which children will be at risk for obesity and which adults will retain weight more strongly. In recent studies, this data has been applied to determine which individuals with obesity will have cardiovascular issues. The researchers behind this study hope that as their study continues, they may find applicable ways to use their data in the prevention of obesity.
This data is useful and relevant to the ongoing obesity crisis in America. Since obesity is not directly life-threatening, it often goes overlooked. The hope with this new database is that people may be able to prevent obesity before it even displays itself as an issue. This genetic technology has the chance to help people and increase their quality of life.
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