Many things can lead to this chronic disease, such as:
 
Energy balance - Taking too much energy from food that is in excess of what the body needs can lead to weight gain, depending on individual metabolism and activity level.
Heredity - If others in your family are obese, you have a higher risk for obesity.

Metabolic disorders - Changes in metabolism, or how your body gets energy from food, may affect your energy balance and your weight.

Eating and social habits - Eating an unbalanced diet, snacking between meals, and not getting enough exercise may all contribute to obesity.

Psychological factors - Social or emotional eating is also one of the main causes of gaining excess weight.

Any one or a combination of these factors can lead to obesity. As science continues to search for answers, morbidly obese individuals must understand how to treat their condition in the most effective way.

Millions of Americans turn to diet, fitness and medication first to treat their obesity. Unfortunately, studies indicate that these people will not achieve long-term weight loss through dietary and behavior modification regimens alone. Morbidly obese people have an even greater challenge when it comes to sustaining weight loss and resolving their health conditions. Surgery may remain the best hope for these individuals to lose weight and keep it off.