Which factor is an etiology of overweight?

• A. Being in precontemplative stage of change
• B. Increased diabetes risk
• C. BMI of 25-29.9
• D. Genetic predisposition

Answer: (D)

Genetic predisposition is an etiologic factor for overweight because inherited genes can influence how the body regulates appetite, satiety, metabolism, and fat storage. People with certain genetic profiles may be more likely to gain weight in typical environments with abundant calories and sedentary lifestyles, since their bodies may conserve energy or crave higher caloric intake more readily. This genetic influence helps explain why weight gain can occur even when behaviors are similar to others without the same genetic background.

The other options don’t explain a cause of overweight. Being in a precontemplative stage of change describes how ready someone is to adopt healthier behaviors, not a biological driver of excess weight. Increased diabetes risk is more of a consequence or associated condition that can accompany overweight, rather than a fundamental etiologic factor for gaining weight. A BMI of 25-29.9 is a classification indicating overweight status, not a causal factor.