What environmental factor is linked to increasing the occurrence of obesity?

The term "obesogenic" refers to environments that promote obesity by encouraging excessive food intake, discouraging physical activity, or both. In this context, an obesogenic environment can include factors like easy access to high-calorie foods, a lack of safe spaces for physical activity, and societal norms that promote sedentary behavior. These elements contribute to weight gain and the prevalence of obesity in different populations.

In contrast, health-promoting environments might encourage physical activity and healthy eating habits, while infectious factors might relate to certain viruses or bacteria that could impact weight and metabolism but are not directly tied to environmental conditions. Dietary-restrictive environments would typically promote weight loss or maintenance by limiting access to food, which does not align with the concept of fostering obesity. Therefore, the identification of "obesogenic" as the environmental factor is grounded in its direct connection to the rising rates of obesity due to systemic influences in society.