Gene linked to obesity also lowers heart disease risk
A gene causing obesity also reduces heart disease risk, study finds.
Why it matters
- The MC4R gene, linked to obesity, is also associated with lower LDL cholesterol and reduced heart disease risk.
By the numbers
- 1% of people with obesity carry MC4R mutations.
- Up to 5% of children with obesity have these mutations.
The big picture
- The gene affects hunger regulation, leading to obesity but also offering some protection against heart disease.
What they're saying
- Some users note that obesity still carries other health risks despite this protective effect.
Caveats
- The gene doesn't directly cause obesity but affects hunger regulation.
- Obesity still poses other health risks.
What’s next
- The findings could guide new treatments for high cholesterol.