Associations of FTO, FABP2, and ADRB3 Polymorphisms and Lifestyle Factors with Obesity-Related Traits Among Young Adults in North Macedonia

Obesity is a complex condition influenced by genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations of FTO, FABP2, and ADRB3 polymorphisms and lifestyle factors with obesity-related anthropometric and biochemical traits in young adults from North Macedonia. Of 194 initially recruited individuals, 111 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis and genotyping of FTO, FABP2, and ADRB3 polymorphisms using PCR-RFLP. Anthropometric measurements were obtained using standardized methods, while dietary habits and other lifestyle factors were assessed using a structured questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed in R, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Diet showed the strongest association with BMI (p < 0.001). The FABP2 Ala/Thr genotype was significantly associated with BMI (p = 0.03), as was the FTO A/T genotype (p = 0.01). ADRB3 polymorphism was significantly associated with biochemical parameters. These findings indicate that both lifestyle factors and genetic variability, particularly in FTO and FABP2, are associated with obesity-related traits in young adults from North Macedonia.