MARS2014-1x: Metabolic Applied Research Strategy

As part of Ethicon's focus on innovation to resolve the obesity epidemic, the company has made a multi-year, multi-million dollar commitment to support basic and applied research into obesity and other metabolic diseases. The Metabolic Applied Research Strategy (MARS) represents a comprehensive approach to developing an understanding of the mechanisms that drive the significant improvements in health associated with metabolic and bariatric surgery. The groundbreaking insights generated through MARS research are redefining the management of obesity, associated metabolic conditions, and patient care. This free online course is your opportunity to learn about those insights. But more than that, it's an opportunity for you to reshape the conversation when it comes to the obesity epidemic and the role of bariatric surgery. Join us as we explore the truth of the "energy balance equation," establish the notion of a "set point," and subsequently debunk a controversial set of myths associated with obesity and bariatric surgery. (Spoiler alert: Obesity is far more complex than most people believe, and bariatric surgery is much more about physiological changes than it is about mechanical changes.) The two lead MARS investigators will share their findings and attempt to contextualize them for you, but this course will also be powered by the interactions you will have with your fellow learners. We will provide plenty of opportunity for you to discuss, debate, and ultimately, to learn from one another. At the end of our 6 weeks together, you'll be thinking and talking about obesity and the role of bariatric surgery in new and unexpected ways.