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The condition of having excess body fat resulting in higher weight, variously defined in terms of absolute weight, weight–height ratio, distribution of subcutaneous fat, and societal and aesthetic norms.
The basic causes are genetic, environmental, behavioral, or some interaction of these. Overeating may have a psychological cause, but in some cases, it may be due to an organic disorder.
Obesity predisposes one to heart disease, diabetes, and other serious medical conditions, and higher weight individuals may develop emotional and psychological problems relating to body image.
Adapted from the APA Dictionary of Psychology