Page 266 - EJMO-9-1

Eurasian Journal of Medicine and
Oncology
Human evolution and obesity

obesity-linked genetic traits. Research using the Biological obesity and metabolic disorders linked to this genetic trait.
State Index has demonstrated that this relaxed selection is Understanding these evolutionary mechanisms is crucial
particularly evident in developing countries, correlating for developing treatment strategies targeting miR-128-1 to
with rising obesity rates. Genetic analyses, including combat metabolic diseases. This contrast between ancient
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studies of mitochondrial DNA variations, have linked survival strategies and modern health challenges provides
specific haplogroups to traits associated with adiposity. a framework for exploring personalized medicine amidst
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Furthermore, investigations into single nucleotide rapid dietary and lifestyle changes. In addition, research by
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polymorphisms have identified numerous genetic Pontzer challenges the notion that weight gain is exclusive
variations related to obesity across diverse populations, to humans, showing that obesity also affects non-human
revealing ethnic differences in susceptibility, such as primates. Although humans are often referred to as the
variations in the Niemann-Pick disease, type C1 (NPC1) “fattest primate” due to genetic adaptations for calorie storage,
gene. 9 many captive primates on restricted diets also become
obese, highlighting the influence of diet and environment.
Modern lifestyles, marked by diets high in refined
sugars and fats, along with increased sedentary behavior, These findings raise important questions about lifestyle, diet
quality, and behavior in weight management across species,
profoundly impact human evolution. Industrialized particularly regarding the differing weight gain patterns
societies often exhibit reduced gut microbiota diversity
compared to traditional societies, which may influence among male and female primates.
health outcomes. The shift toward energy-dense, nutrient- In summary, understanding obesity through an
poor foods, coupled with decreased physical activity, has evolutionary lens reveals the complex interaction between
led to a rise in metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes, genetic predispositions and modern environmental factors.
cardiovascular disease, and obesity. This situation reflects a Historical adaptations that favored fat storage for survival
disconnect between our evolutionary adaptations to a more have become maladaptive in today’s calorie-rich, sedentary
primal lifestyle and contemporary behaviors, resulting in society. This disconnect emphasizes the importance of
decreased metabolic flexibility and other health issues. The considering individual genetic differences alongside societal
agricultural revolution has also led to significant changes in influences in addressing obesity. Effective prevention and
dietary habits and dental health, as evidenced by reduced management strategies should integrate these insights,
tooth wear over generations. 10 recognizing that while genetics can influence susceptibility,
they do not dictate outcomes. Comprehensive approaches
Excess body fat, once advantageous for survival during
periods of scarcity, now poses significant health risks. The must include dietary changes, mental health support, and
cultural shifts toward healthier lifestyles. By connecting
dual intervention point model suggests that our genetic our evolutionary history with current health challenges, we
predisposition to store fat conflicts with modern lifestyles, can develop more effective interventions tailored to diverse
resulting in adverse health outcomes. While stored fat populations, ultimately improving health outcomes and
provides a protective energy reserve during illness, obesity’s addressing the obesity epidemic.
overall impact on health is complex and influenced by
genetics and current environmental factors. Genetics Acknowledgments
accounts for up to 70% of obesity risk, with various genes
linked to increased body weight and individual responses We are especially grateful to Dr. Hadi Zohouri for fruitful
to dietary fats. The multifactorial nature of obesity is discussions and feedback.
further complicated by behavioral, socioeconomic, and Funding
environmental factors, contributing to higher morbidity
rates from conditions such as diabetes and the coronavirus None.
disease 2019. 11 Conflict of interest
Recent research reveals a complex relationship
between human evolution and modern metabolic health, The authors declare that they have no competing interests.
demonstrating how genetic adaptations that once favored Author contributions
survival can now contribute to health issues in an era of
overnutrition and inactivity. For instance, the microRNA Conceptualization: Amirhossein Rahmani, Seyed Alireza
128-1 (miR-128-1) gene in the 2q21.3 region highlights Dastgheib
our ancestors’ ability to store fat, which was essential Writing – original draft: Hossein Neamatzadeh
for survival. However, today’s environment of abundant Writing – review & editing: Seyed Alireza Dastgheib,
high-calorie foods and low physical activity can lead to Hossein Neamatzadeh

Volume 9 Issue 1 (2025) 258 doi: 10.36922/ejmo.5384