In an interesting study I recently read about childhood obesity, a molecular marker in saliva was found to be associated with the emergence of childhood obesity in a group of preschool-aged Hispanic children. Crazy, isn’t it?! The investigators found that methylation of a gene called NRF1, which has roles in adipose tissue inflammation, was associated with childhood obesity. A child with the NRF1 methylation at baseline had a threefold increased odds of being obese three years later, after controlling for maternal BMI and other factors. What do you think would be helpful to families who find out their child has an increased disposition towards obesity? I would be interested in hearing your thoughts.