Obesity Virus: Adenovirus 36

Posted on July 20, 2009 in Latest News

Obesity is associated with unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity.However, a virus known as adenovirus – 36 or Ad-36 might a factor behind obesity. Ad-36 is supposed to increase the fat cell production – thereby resulting in obesity. However, as the research into Ad-36 is still in the starting stages, further study might be required to confirm its effect on obesity.

About obesity Virus Ad-36:
Ad-36 is a highly infectious virus which causes sore throats and cold. This virus is believed to get into the fat tissue and resplicate itself. It then increases the fat cell production. People might also get sore throat in the process of being infected.  Adenovirus has about 50 strains – which cause sore throats, respiratory infections, pneumonia and cold.

However, it was found that not all the people who were infected with Ad-36 became fat – some people became fat after the infection and some did not. Research is going on to find out the reasons as to why some people become fat and the various ways to treat this problem.

A research study showed that about 30% of obese people had Ad-36 virus, and only 11% lean people had this virus. It was also found that monkeys when infected with this virus became fat.

Obesity has become an epidemic – primarily due to unhealthy eating habits and sedentary lifestyles. Virus and genetic factors may trigger obesity. However, regular exercise and proper diet have been proven to reduce obesity. So, till the anti-virus for obesity virus is found, it is best to eat healthy and be active.

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