Poor diet: High intake of sugar, fats, processed foods, and sugary beverages

Physical inactivity: Lack of exercise, screen time

Limited Sleep: Alters appetite-regulating hormones, increasing cravings

Genetics: tendency to gain weight more easily

Hormonal imbalances: e.g. leptin resistance, insulin resistance, or thyroid disorders

Metabolic rate: Some individuals have slower resting metabolic rates

Physical environment: Lack of sidewalks, parks, or safe spaces for physical activity

Food environment: Easy access to high-calorie, low-nutrient fast food and processed foods

Urbanization: Car-based transport, screen time

Large portion sizes

Marketing: Aggressive advertising of sugary foods and drinks

Emotional eating: mechanism to cope with stress, boredom, sadness, or anxiety

Depression and anxiety: may lead to overeating or inactivity

Low self-esteem: may lower any motivation to adopt healthy habits

Eating disorders: such as binge eating

Chronic stress: triggers cortisol, which may promote fat accumulation

Low income: Limited access to healthy food and recreational facilities

Low education levels: Associated with less awareness of nutrition and health risks

Healthcare access: Limited ability to get preventive care or counseling