Single gene ‘can fuel obesity’
Children carrying a single gene variant may be more susceptible to overeating and obesity, scientists have suggested.
There is a growing body of evidence that individuals carrying one of two variants of the FTO gene are more prone to eating excessively.
It is believed that more than half the European population carries at least one of these variants.
Researchers from the University College London found that children carrying any such genes were more likely to carry on eating biscuits even when full from a substantial meal.
Lead researcher Professor Jane Wardle said: "We believe this research tells us more about how some children are more responsive to signals in their bodies encouraging them to eat when full than others."
She added that understanding how such genes work is the "first step" to tackling the childhood obesity problem.
According to a recent study published in the journal Cancer Today, obese women are at an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
The Insurance Helpline specialises in obtaining cover for people living with obesity
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