The report that UK scientists have discovered a gene that is linked to obesity (http://www.guardian.co.uk/frontpage/story/0,,2056481,00.html) has been greeted with much enthusiasm. The study shows that individuals with one copy of the gene are on average 1.2 kg heavier and those with 2 copies are around 3 kg bulkier is striking. In the UK, obesity is the second biggest cause of death (after smoking) and the finding raises the possibility of 'medical' treatments for the condition (although it was still emphasised in reports that lifestyle features such as diet and exercise are important). The labelling of the inheritable factor as a 'rogue gene' may, however, be premature. Perhaps the gene is problematic in today's Western world where food is generally available in excess and there are many opportunities (and excuses?) to avoid hard exercise. The gene could, however, have been beneficial to individuals under more extreme conditions (seen in earlier times and locations) where food supply was limited and there was a need to undertake grinding manual labour.
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