Obesity is a global epidemic with major implications on healthcare costs, societal productivity and quality of life. In Hong Kong, 1 in 2 adults are overweight or obese. Apart from causing metabolic diseases such as prediabetes, diabetes and cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), obesity is a major cause of multiple morbidities including cancer, osteoarthritis, obstructive sleep apnea and depression.

The regulation and maintenance of body weight is a complex process involving genetics, environment, psychology and behavior through an interconnecting network of neuro-hormonal signals. Adding to this are the emerging roles of microbiota and its interactions with foods and medications in regulating energy intake, storage and expenditure. The discovery of the incretin-pathway and other gut hormones have opened up a new field of therapeutics in weight management. On the other hand, nutritional supplements and cognitive-psychological-behavioral interventions, augmented by digital solutions, are being systematically evaluated to create evidence base in support of their value and reimbursement.

This certificate course forms part of the MEDM programme with professional credit points and has been welcomed by doctors and allied healthcare professionals. The programme will provide the latest update on the diagnosis and treatment of obesity, which have inspired many students to go on and take the MEDM programme to understand the what, why and how of obesity (or its avoidance). This knowledge will not only benefit the career development of learners but also themselves and their significant ones. Through the course, the learners will also network with workers from other healthcare disciplines to appreciate the importance of interdisciplinary weight management programme.