THIS EVENT IS NOW FULLY BOOKED

2009 Garvan International Fellow Lecture

My Genes Made Me Eat That!

By Professor Stephen O'Rahilly FRS

University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and

Medical Research Council Centre of Obesity and Related Metabolic Diseases (UK).

This is an opportunity to hear from one of the world's leading experts in the genetics of weight gain and appetite.

Find out why some people are more prone to weight gain, and how genes influence appetite and body weight.

Professor O’Rahilly’s research has shown that our eating behaviour and weight can be linked to specific genes. His work has encouraged new treatment regimes and challenged long held beliefs that being overweight is simply the result of poor lifestyle choices.

Australia is one of the most overweight developed nations.  About one in two Australian adults and up to one in four children is either overweight or obese. Poor diet and lack of exercise take much of the blame for these statistics; however research is now telling us that genes play a major, perhaps even the major role, in determining a person’s body size.

After height, body mass index is the second most heritable body feature – up to 70% of body size can be genetic. A greater understanding of how genes regulate body weight will assist in the prevention and treatment of obesity and overweight.

Professor Stephen O’Rahilly has uncovered several previously unrecognised genetic causes of these diseases, including some that are amenable to treatment. One of these genetic defects is known to cause up to 5% of severe obesity in children. Prof O'Rahilly has won many awards for his work including the prestigious Society for Endocrinology Medal, and is a Fellow of the Royal Society. While maintaining a large research laboratory, he remains actively involved in clinical practice and teaches clinical medical students.

Tuesday 15th December, 6:30pm - 7:30pm (doors open at 6pm)

Garvan Institute of Medical Research

384 Victoria Road Darlinghurst (enter via Burton Street)

Registrations are essential. Attendance is free.