Obesity | featured news

Scientists have discovered two gene variants that appear to play a critical role in the development of common childhood obesity, according to a large genetic study released Sunday. The discovery could eventually lead to treatments and specific lifestyle advice for heavy children.

The obesity problem in the US may be much worse than previously thought, according to researchers. They said using the Body Mass Index or BMI to determine obesity was underestimating the issue.

Researchers believe they have identified why a mutation in a particular gene can lead to obesity.

Having a so-called obesity gene doesn't necessarily doom you to being fat, a study finds — if you stay active.

Like a lot of companies, Veridian Credit Union wants its employees to be healthier. In January, the Waterloo, Iowa-company rolled out a wellness program and voluntary screenings.

"Munchies" aside, pot smokers are actually less likely than no-smokers to put on excess weight, according to a study by a French researcher.

More than 1,000 McDonald's restaurants in Britain will begin displaying the calorie count of each fast food item on their menus, as part of a government-led program to fight obesity.

The number of obese people in the U.S. is projected to double by 2030 contributing to soaring health costs.

Not everyone who is obese needs to lose weight — it's possible to carry extra pounds and still be healthy, a new study says. Although obesity brings an increased risk of many health complications, the new study shows that people who are obese but do not have such complications might live as long as normal weight individuals.

Should parents of extremely obese children lose custody for not controlling their kids' weight? A provocative commentary in one of the nation's most distinguished medical journals argues yes, and its authors are joining a quiet chorus of advocates who say the government should be allowed to intervene in extreme cases....