Obesity is the most common chronic disease among adolescents

Experts from the Spanish Society of Endocrinology and Nutrition (SEEN) have warned that obesity is the most common chronic disease among adolescents, with nine out of ten overweight three-year-olds becoming obese within a few years due to genetic and environmental factors.

" Genetics significantly influences the predisposition to obesity, as more than 130 genes have been identified as related to this condition, a large number of which are involved in the regulation of appetite, satiety, or response," explained Gema Medina-Gómez, vice president of the Spanish Society for the Study of Obesity (Seedo).

He did so in a presentation scheduled for the Congress of the Spanish Society of Endocrinology and Nutrition (SEEN), which is being held this Wednesday in Granada.

Furthermore, the expert explained that these genes can modify the way the body responds to diet and exercise , making some people more prone to gaining weight even with similar habits to others.

Role of genetic factors

It is estimated that between 40 and 70% of variations in body mass index (BMI) can be attributed to genetic factors , although this percentage may vary if factors such as the amount of body fat and its distribution are taken into account.

Furthermore, only about 5% of obesity cases are due to specific genetic mutations.

Medina-Gómez also indicated that obesity is a complex and multifactorial disease , resulting from the interaction between genes and environment, but that it can be prevented with a balanced diet from an early age, especially in people with a family history of obesity, and regular physical activity.

"It is possible to reverse the growing trend of obesity in Spain with appropriate public policies and personalized care," this expert added.

For his part, Gilberto Pérez López, endocrinologist and pediatrician, and member of the Obesity Area of ​​the SEEN, pointed out that obesity is the most common chronic disease in adolescents and is associated with a high risk of persistence into adulthood.

"From the moment of diagnosis , it must be treated intensively and is one of the most complex and difficult situations a pediatrician can face," added Pérez López, who noted that it is a "progressive and recurring" disease with no cure, as 90% of overweight three-year-olds will become obese in adolescence.

In Spain, the Pasos study has shown that the prevalence of obesity among adolescents is 8.2% , a percentage determined by genetic, environmental, lifestyle, and social influences.

The environment also plays an important role in the prevalence of obesity, as exposure to synthetic chemicals such as PFAS, which are considered "obesogenic" compounds, i.e., chemicals capable of altering metabolism and promoting the accumulation of body fat, increases the risk of obesity.