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Sadeghrianrizi A, Forsberg C-M et al. Eur J Orthod 2005; 27: 550–555

Genetic control accounts for about 1/3 of the variation in body mass index (BMI), a ratio of weight to height squared (kg/m2); BMI of 25 is defined as overweight, and 30 as obesity. In obese patients, growth hormone secretion is significantly reduced, and there are other possible differences which may also affect craniofacial growth. In this study, lateral cephalograms of 50 obese subjects were compared with those for matched normal controls.

In obese individuals, anterior cranial base, mandibular and maxillary lengths were all greater. Lower anterior and posterior face height and mandibular plane angle were also greater, as was maxillary dentoalveolar height. There were also certain gender-specific differences. The authors discuss the findings and conclude there may be a need to modify orthodontic treatment goals in obese individuals.