Course content

This course will discuss the definition of obesity and assessment methodologies used both in practice and research. It will give an overview of the epidemiology, etiology, pathophysiology and consequences of obesity in terms of health, economy and overall society. It will discuss in detail the lifestyle, drug, endocrine and genetic causes of obesity, their individual contribution to the obesity epidemic and potential interactions among them. It will provide an in-depth discussion of the complexity of energy balance and its components and their role in obesity. The physiological and psychological factors that control eating behavior will be presented and discussed, as well as the development, anatomy and function of the adipose tissue and the interplay between obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

Learning outcome

After completing the course KLH3101, the student:

• has the basic understanding of the main genetics, endocrine and pharmacological causes to obesity for children and adults, in addtion to what role diet and physical activity plays in the development of obesity
• is capable to understand the correlation between heredity and environment in obesity development in individuals
• has in depth understanding of how obesity effect mortality and morbidity, and the economical and health consequences of obesity
• is able to discuss social and psycological consequences of obesity in all adults and children
• has a good insight in child obesity in relation to age, and have knowledge of how obesity for children affects physical, psycological and social relations

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, discussions, practice, guidance and essay. Attendance on lectures is compulsory. Approved compulsory activities are valid for three subsequent semesters after approval. In re-scheduled examinations the assessment form may be changed to oral examination.

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