What is the most common genetic finding associated with obesity in the general population?

The most common genetic finding associated with obesity in the general population is indeed the FTO variant gene expression. The FTO gene, which stands for fat mass and obesity-associated gene, was one of the first genes identified to have a significant association with body mass index (BMI) and obesity risk. Variants within this gene are prevalent in many populations and are believed to influence appetite regulation and energy expenditure.

Research has shown that individuals with certain alleles of the FTO gene tend to have an increased likelihood of obesity, with studies indicating that these variants could lead to higher caloric intake and reduced satiety. Given the high frequency of these genetic variants in the population and their strong association with obesity, the FTO gene is considered the most significant genetic factor linked to obesity in a general context, making it a key area of focus in obesity research.

In contrast, mutations in the leptin receptor and polymorphisms in the MC4R gene are less common in the general population and typically associated with more rare, monogenic forms of obesity. Meanwhile, ADIPOQ gene variants are associated with adiponectin levels and have been studied in relation to obesity and metabolic syndrome, but they do not represent the most common genetic findings overall. Thus, F