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Integrative approaches in studying obesity: sociodemographic, dietary, genetic determinants and phenotypic manifestations

nutrition
public-health
medical-genetics
metabolic-sciences
obesity

Abstract

Background: Obesity is a complex, multifactorial disorder influenced by sociodemographic determinants, dietary behaviors, genetic susceptibility, and phenotypic characteristics. Its rising global prevalence poses major challenges for public health, increasing the burden of non-communicable diseases and healthcare costs. Understanding obesity requires an integrative approach combining biological, social, and environmental factors.

Methods: We conducted a narrative review following MOOSE guidelines, synthesizing peer-reviewed literature published between 2015 and 2025. Searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science using predefined keywords related to sociodemographic factors, dietary patterns, genetic variants, and anthropometric measures. Studies reporting human data were prioritized, and sex- and gender-specific findings were highlighted where available.

Results: The review identifies four primary domains influencing obesity: (1) sociodemographic disparities such as income, education, and access to resources; (2) dietary patterns, including macronutrient quality, portion sizes, and circadian-aligned eating behaviors; (3) genetic variants like FTO and MC4R, which interact with environmental exposures to affect adiposity; and (4) phenotypic indicators, including body mass index, waist circumference, and fat distribution. Integration of multi-omics and systems biology approaches reveals mechanistic links between genetic, environmental, and behavioral determinants.

Conclusion: Obesity arises from a dynamic interplay of biological, behavioral, and structural determinants. Integrative, sex-stratified, and culturally contextualized frameworks are essential to improving predictive models and designing equitable interventions. Future research should adopt multi-omics and systems-based methodologies to develop scalable, personalized, and sustainable strategies for obesity prevention and management.

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