Abstract

Obesity: is Type II diabetes a foregone conclusion or further dependent on genetic susceptibility?

Author(s): Sarah Keildson & Cecilia M Lindgren

Obesity results from an excess accumulation of body fat and is a major risk factor for Type 2 diabetes (T2D). Common, overall obesity is a complex trait influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Recent genome-wide association studies have identified robust associations at 32 loci with overall obesity as well as 14 with body fat distribution. While overlapping evidence from both genetic and epidemiological studies suggests a link between obesity and T2D, specific fat distribution patterns, independent of overall adiposity, may play an equally important role in T2D risk. Understanding the etiological link between obesity, fat distribution and T2D presents new opportunities for the management, and ultimately treatment, of these diseases.