OBJECTIVE: The basis of this study is to explore the different contributing factors that affect excess weight gain among adolescents. The different attributes that will be reviewed include: the various genetic disorders, nutrition, food industry, physical activity, sedentary activities, and the assortment of methods used to measure to weight and body composition. METHODS: The design of this study is a cross sectional study using secondary data. The sampling frame will include high school students. The method of sample selection used is the clustering sampling method. The unit of analysis is at the individual level. The study population is high school students. The dependent variable is weight and independent variables are: height, diet, nutrition, exercising, age, sex, race and self-perception. RESULTS: The model was very representational of the study population r2 = 0.584. The statistical significance level was 0.05 and many variables (Height, Gender, Ethnicity, Age, etc.) proved to have a strong significant affect on weight (Beta was also used). CONCLUSIONS: The limitation of the study is that the survey fails to ask any question regarding genetic disorders that influence excessive weight gain, obesity. This information would be formable in trying to treat adolescents who currently suffer from genetic disorders. Also this would provide a good estimate of the percentage of young people (by ethnicity) who are affected. Another survey is recommended; that ask an assortment of questions pertaining to the daily habits of adolescents, a social behavioral study. The information could aid in the development of a better behavioral treatment for children in accordance to their life style. The Youth Risk Behavioral Survey needs to be modified so that it is more inclusive. The survey should be translated into other languages and made available for students who are not fluent in comprehending English. Non-English speaking children do gain weight as well.