Information for patients About CEMTIO Sitemap CEMTIO > General perspective on obesity > Main causes of obesity General Perspective on Obesity Main causes of obesity Consequences of obesity    Related Illnesses Interventionist treatments for obesity Current recommendations Frequently asked questions Intragastric Balloon Adjustable Gastric Band Gastric By-Pass BMI calculation: What are the categories of obesity? Obesity treatment centres Visit Request Request more information Links of interest Bibliography GENERAL PERSPECTIVE ON OBESITY What are the causes of obesity?  The following are some of the main causes of obesity: Genetic propensity Twins studies Adopted children "Obesity" gene Physiological Leptin protein Stretch receptor decrease Loss of satiation mechanism (hypothalamus) Evolutionary Conduct Family tradition Comfort children by giving them food Addiction Sex (80% women) Higher fat component Socioeconomic Social classes with higher/lower income Cultural Aspects Psychosocial Defence mechanism (i.e. stress, abuse) Social Technology has brought about a decrease in energy expension Lifts, electric windows, food deliveries to the home, remote controls, cars, computers, videogames, TV.