Genetic predisposition, metabolic disorders, and environmental influences all contribute to the development of obesity. Excess caloric intake and sedentary lifestyles are primary risk factors, but hormonal imbalances and gut microbiota composition also play significant roles. The complexity of obesity: causes, risk factors & pathophysiology extends beyond simple weight gain, involving intricate physiological mechanisms like leptin resistance, insulin dysregulation, and chronic inflammation. Socioeconomic factors further exacerbate the issue, influencing dietary choices and accessibility to healthcare. Understanding how adipose tissue functions as an endocrine organ sheds light on its role in systemic inflammation and metabolic syndromes. Research continues to uncover how epigenetics and early-life exposures shape long-term obesity risk. Addressing these factors through multidisciplinary approaches is essential for effective prevention and intervention strategies.