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Obesity research priorities

Obesity is associated with increased mortality and substantial morbidity, placing a significant burden on healthcare systems around the world. In January 2010, eight priorities for MRC obesity research were identified and divided into two categories: scientific areas and experimental and conceptual approaches. Some research priorities are current areas of strength for UK research where significant progress is being made, whereas others are under-developed and in need of stimulation. A wide variety of approaches will be required in combination to achieve the MRC's overall objectives of understanding the mechanisms of obesity and related disease, and developing interventions to prevent or treat these conditions.

Priorities for MRC obesity research Mechanisms of obesity and associated disease Neuroscience of obesity Prevention and intervention: obesity and links to disease Physical activity Ethnicity and obesity Bariatric surgery as a research tool Global health Method development (including dietary behaviour)


In addition to detailed information about each of our priorities, there is more about the background to obesity research and how these priorities were identified, plus an overview of MRC-funded obesity research.