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Abstract Obesity is a medical condition in which excess body fat has accumulated to the extent that it may have an adverse effect on health, leading to reduced life expectancy and/or increased health problems. Obesity is often multifactorial, based on both genetic and behavioral factors. Overweight is a significant contributor to health problems. It increases the risk of developing a number of diseases including Type 2 (adult-onset) diabetes, hypertension and myocardial infarction. The simple cause is ingestion of more calories than are required for energy, the excess being stored in the body as fat. Inactivity and insufficient exercise can be contributing factors; the less active the person, the fewer calories are needed to maintain normal body weight. Overeating may result from unhealthful patterns of eating established by the family and cultural environment, perhaps exacerbated by psychological distress, an emotional dependence on food. |