Mantelstudium Adipositas

In Switzerland, approximately one-third of the population is overweight, and an additional 12% are affected by obesity. Although recent data indicate a stabilization in prevalence, obesity remains one of the most significant chronic health issues, contributing substantially to increased morbidity and mortality rates.

Beyond its well-known associations with medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers, obesity also imposes considerable psychological and social challenges. Individuals living with obesity frequently experience stigmatization and discrimination, leading to diminished mental health and reluctance to seek essential medical care.

The elective course "Adipositas – warum dick sein krank macht" ("Obesity – Why overweight makes you sick") offers medical students a comprehensive exploration of obesity, addressing its pathophysiology, underlying causes, clinical consequences, and therapeutic strategies. The curriculum includes specialized lectures by experts such as Prof. Dr. Marco Bueter, Dr. med. Renward S. Hauser, Prof. Dr. Philipp Gerber, Dr. med. Christoph Rutishauser, Prof. Dr. Bernd Schultes, Prof. Dr. Gabriella Milos, and Prof. Dr. Tanja Krones.

Key topics include the Physiology of Eating Behavior (Physiologie des Essverhaltens), evidence-based approaches to Prevention (Prävention), ethical considerations in obesity treatment, and diverse Therapeutic Options (Therapie) ranging from lifestyle modifications to bariatric surgery. The course uniquely integrates interactive sessions on societal perceptions like Stigma and Guilt (Stigma und Schuld), providing insights into the profound effects of social biases on patient care and wellbeing.

Participants will engage in a multidisciplinary educational experience, benefiting from exposure to clinical, psychological, and ethical perspectives. A distinctive aspect of the course is an experiential learning component where students wear an obesity suit to experience social and physical challenges firsthand. This practical activity includes navigating public spaces and performing everyday tasks, culminating in group presentations to reflect on the lived experiences of individuals with obesity.

The elective course awards 4 ECTS credits and includes active participation, group projects, and critical discussions to foster greater empathy, understanding, and competency in obesity management among future healthcare professionals.