ABSTRACT
Each individual’s body composition represents the cumulative and interactive effects of unique genetic potential, multiple lifecourse environments and experiences, and conscious decisions about lifestyle behaviors. Cameron and Demerath (2002) propose that the classic concept of narrow “critical periods” requires modification if it is to be applied to chronic diseases. They suggest a more broad “lifespan perspective” that encompasses accumulating and interacting risks that are manifest from prenatal life onward. In the case of obesity, it is necessary to take this approach one step further to include an intergenerational “lifecourse approach.” The risk of obesity is cumulative for each individual, and exposure begins before conception. For example, women who are obese, still growing, or diabetic may provide an intrauterine environment for the fetus that differs from women who do not have these characteristics. Children, in turn, may pass on their intrauterine and environmental risks to their own children, and so on. While “lifecourse” factors together may not explain all of the rapid increase in obesity prevalent in Western countries (Parker, 2003; Prentice, 2001), they do provide insight about potential approaches to obesity prevention and when during the life cycle obesity prevention is likely to be most warranted.
