Better understanding of how societal, behavioral, and environmental conditions interact with diverse genetic backgrounds will allow at-risk populations with an increased susceptibility to obesity to be targeted for preventive measures. Also, the prescription of customized obesity treatment assignments will increase the likelihood of successful interventions and the restoration of health. In addition, the reduction of cardiovascular risk factors will improve morbidity and mortality in this population, and result in a reduction in the cost of health care. This study aims to examine and compare lifestyle, cardiovascular risk, health status, and genetic background in two populations for a total of 2000 individuals: half with BMI >40 kg/m2 and half <30 kg/m2. Diet, body composition, lifestyle, cardiovascular risk factors, and the prevalence of polymorphisms in genes known to affect body habitus, energy intake or expenditure will be assessed and compared. High throughput genotyping will allow the examination of DNA and the determination of polymorphism prevalence in this racially and ethnically diverse cohort. Obese subjects will then undergo a one year period of treatment at a obesity clinic with a protocol selected by the patient and their attending physician, response to treatment monitored, and variability in response examined for the influence of genetic factors. This research project attempts a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach linking biomedical, social, and behavioral science in order to clarify the potential role of genetic-environmental interactions in obesity treatment.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32DK064512-02
Application #
6830118
Study Section
Epidemiology and Disease Control Subcommittee 2 (EDC)
Program Officer
Podskalny, Judith M,
Project Start
2003-09-30
Project End
2006-09-29
Budget Start
2004-09-30
Budget End
2005-09-29
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2004
Total Cost
$47,296
Indirect Cost
Name
Tufts University
Department
Type
Organized Research Units
DUNS #
039318308
City
Boston
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02111