But while an increase in obesity rates in recent years has been put down to lifestyle factors such as poor diet and a lack of exercise, the genetic predisposition to obesity, particularly among Maori and Pacific Island populations, has been less understood.
Now, a landmark study will use the latest genome-sequencing technology to analyse the DNA of more than 600 Kiwis, including a large group of adults considered at risk of obesity.
The work, to be led by the Auckland-based Maurice Wilkins Centre and being announced this morning at the Queenstown Research Week conference, will specifically target up to 500 genes suspected of affecting individuals’ appetite and the way they control their energy metabolism.