Course content

This course deals with discussion of the definition of obesity and methods to measure people with obesity in clinical practice and in research will be discussed. The course will provide an overview of the epidemiology, etiology, pathophysiology and consequences of obesity related to health, economy and society. Causes of obesity such as genetics, metabolic, medicinal, living conditions and societal changes will be discussed in detail. The course will facilitate an in-depth discussion about the development of the obesity epidemic, the complexity of the energy balance, as well as the components it consists of, and their role when it comes to obesity. Physiological and psychological factors that control eating habits will be presented and discussed, in addition to the development, anatomy and function of adipose tissue, as well as the interaction between obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

Learning outcome

After passing the course, the student should have acquired:

Knowledge:

• to be able to define obesity and know the development of obesity as a disease
• of obesity as a disease and risk factor
• about the trends in obesity prevalence

Skills:

• in a basic understanding of the most important genetic, endocrine and pharmacological, psychological and social causes of obesity in both adults and children, in addition to the role that diet and physical activity play in the development of obesity
• to be able to understand the interaction between genetics and environment when determining an individual's predisposition to obesity

General competence:

• to understand in-depth the impact obesity on mortality and morbidity, the economic consequences obesity brings with it, as well as the most common health consequences
• to be able to discuss the social and psychological consequences of obesity in both adults and children

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, discussion, practice, guidance. Mandatory attendance at lectures and mandatory group work with oral presentation.

If few students register for the course, learning activities can be changed.

Compulsory assignments

• Group work
• Attendance to lectures

Recommended previous knowledge

Equivalent to admission to the master's programme in Clinical Health Science, obesity and health.

Course materials

Will be announced at the start of the semester.

Credit reductions