Real-world social issue and how biological or genetic factors may influence the issue.
identify a real-world social issue and discuss how biological or genetic factors may influence the issue. Examples of social problems include bullying, criminology, obesity, and alcoholism. Select a social issue for this post and discuss some of the biological or genetic factors that can negatively influence this issue.
Consider the following in your initial post:
What does the biological approach reveal about the issue?
Is there one biological or genetic factor that appears to have more influence than other factors that negatively impact the social issue?
Could there be several biological or genetic factors that negatively impact the issue?
Be sure to find and cite supporting evidence for your viewpoint.
Sample Solution
Biological and Genetic Factors:
Obesity is a complex social issue with many contributing factors, including biological and genetic factors. The biological approach to obesity focuses on the physiological mechanisms that underlie weight gain and loss. Genetic factors play a significant role in obesity, with estimates suggesting that they account for 40-70% of the variation in body mass index (BMI).
What does the biological approach reveal about obesity?
The biological approach to obesity has revealed a number of factors that can contribute to weight gain, including:
- Energy metabolism: The body's energy metabolism refers to the way it converts food into energy. People with a slower metabolism tend to burn fewer calories at rest and during activity, which can lead to weight gain.
- Hormones: Hormones play a role in regulating appetite, hunger, and satiety. People with certain hormonal imbalances, such as insulin resistance or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), are at increased risk for obesity.
- Genetics: Genes play a role in regulating all aspects of energy metabolism, from appetite to energy expenditure. People with certain genetic variants are more likely to develop obesity.
- Genetics: A study published in the journal Nature Genetics found that people with certain genetic variants were at increased risk for obesity, even if they had a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
- Hormones: A study published in the journal Diabetes Care found that people with insulin resistance were at increased risk for obesity.
- Energy metabolism: A study published in the journal Cell Metabolism found that people with a slower metabolism burned fewer calories at rest and during activity, which can lead to weight gain.
- Eating a healthy diet: A healthy diet can help to regulate energy metabolism, hormones, and other factors that influence weight.
- Exercising regularly: Exercise can help to burn calories, increase energy expenditure, and improve insulin sensitivity.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help to improve your overall health and reduce your risk of developing obesity-related complications.
- Talking to your doctor: If you have concerns about your weight or are struggling to lose weight, talk to your doctor. They can help you to develop a personalized plan to manage your weight and reduce your risk of obesity-related complications.