Genetic Inheritance and Parental Influence Play Key Role in Childhood Obesity

Recent research reveals that children of obese parents are at a higher risk of developing obesity themselves. This increased risk is largely attributed to the inheritance of obesity-related genes, which significantly influence a child's weight. Interestingly, the study also highlights a smaller but notable impact of indirect genetic effects from mothers—those genes that affect the child's environment but are not directly inherited. These nurture effects appear most influential during adolescence. The findings suggest that maternal BMI has a dual impact on children's weight, both through inherited genetic factors and environmental influences, while paternal influence remains primarily linked to directly inherited genes. The research underscores the importance of considering genetic and environmental factors together when addressing childhood obesity. Policy measures aimed at reducing obesity could therefore benefit future generations by focusing on parental health and family-based interventions.

This study was led by Liam Wright from University College London and published in PLOS Genetics. It involved analyzing genetic and BMI data from over 2,500 parent-child trios, providing insight into how inherited genetics and parental influence contribute to childhood obesity.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-kids-obese-parents-obesity-due.html