ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the etiologies of obesity which can be considered, on a foundational level, to serve as insight for our continually expanding knowledge and understanding of the complexities of excessive adipose tissue. It examines the multifaceted keys to susceptibility for obesity that is strongly influenced by genetic, behavioral, environmental, biological, circadian, and other factors. The chapter discusses the major categories of global and community influences, personal characteristics, and behavioral factors. Socioeconomic status usually entails income, education, occupation, or a composite. The prevalence of obesity in most developed countries, including the United States, seems to be negatively correlated with socioeconomic class. The chapter focuses on potential causes of obesity during pregnancy as well as iatrogenic or secondary factors leading to obesity. One important psychological aspect for obesity is abuse. One characteristic associated with obesity is the inflammatory state of the body.
