<P> Polymorphisms in various genes controlling appetite and metabolism predispose to obesity under certain dietary conditions . The percentage of obesity that can be attributed to genetics varies widely , depending on the population examined , from 6 % to 85 % . As of 2006 , more than 41 sites on the human genome have been linked to the development of obesity when a favorable environment is present . The involvement of genetic factors in the development of obesity is estimated to be 40 -- 70 % . Some of these obesogenic or leptogenic genes may influence obese individuals response to weight loss or weight management . </P>
the percentage of the inheritance of obesity that is accounted for by genetic factors is about
40 -- 70 %