Genetic Obesity Linked to Smoking

While smoking has often been associated with being thin, a new study suggests that the tendency to have increased body fat is tied to smoking. To draw this conclusion, researchers studied medical, genetic, and lifestyle information from 450,000 participants.

This study found that genetic profiles that are predictive of increased BMI are also associated with smoking tobacco or a previous history of smoking. However, the relationship between these profiles, smoking, and excess body fat is not well understood. Some researchers believe that people may be tempted to start smoking as a means to lose weight, as smoking decreases the appetite.

The findings were published in The BMJ on May 16, 2018.