N.J. Group Tackles Obesity Epidemic

In New Jersey, the obesity rate in adults is rising faster than that of it's neighbors. From 1991 to 1998, the obesity rate flamed up to 57 percent and by 2001, hit 19 percent which is just below the national average of 20 percent. Susan Shapses, an associate professor of nutritional sciences at Rutgers, and her colleagues are trying to pinpoint specific genetic and environmental causes of obesity and put it to a halt. So far, they've examined specific genes that are more sensitive to the bitter tastes in vegetables. By trying to eliminate that gene, they hope to correct peoples' eating habits. They also are offering an outreach group to aid those who are trying to lose weight. With the serious studies and help groups, hopefully the obesity rates will slow down or better yet, go in the opposite direction.