May 09 2008
Gene sequence: Reason for obesity among Indian Asians
May 9: A research team led by Imperial College London has found the reason behind high obesity rate among Indian community. A gene sequence carried by them is considered as the reason for their increasing waist line, obesity and risk of type 2 diabetes.
The gene sequence is found to be carried by 50% of the population. The study explains the reason for high level of obesity in Indian Asians, who contribute 25% of the world population and they are expected to contribute 40% of the cardiovascular disease by 2020. On this backdrop this study gains much significance and is expected to pave way for new obesity treatments.
The gene sequence is capable of influencing the gene called MC4R that controls energy levels in the body and determines the food intake and its energy conversion; it has direct influence in determining the unusual form of childhood obesity. The findings of the research showed the presence of the sequence will lead to 2cm expansion in waist line, a 2kg gain in weight and give resistant to insulin that leads to type 2 diabetes.
While commenting on this the lead researcher of the study Professor Jaspal Kooner said: “The gene related health issues are little understood; only few researchers were conducted on this topic. By understanding influence of genes behind health issues such as diabetes and cardiovascular problems will help to know about the genetic inheritance of people and their susceptibility to diseases. Genetic inheritance of a person could not be changed but preventive measures like subjecting them to diet, exercise and finding out new drugs that could effectively cure the disease.”
The British Heart Foundation funded this study. Professor Peter Weissberg its medical director opined that it had long been found that Indian Asians are more vulnerable to cardiovascular problems than white Europeans. This research is important as it gives a clear picture about the health benefits by reducing weight. The cardiovascular and diabetic risk of people of Indian origin could be handled effectively by understanding their gene inheritance.
