Obesity has become such a devastating health problem worldwide that scientists now classify it as an epidemic. Tennesseans should be particularly concerned as the state has the fifth highest obesity rate in the country.

The formation of the University of Tennessee Obesity Research Center, announced today, will provide one place for faculty from many disciplines to collaborate on research efforts.

The co-directors of the center are Naima Moustaid-Moussa, professor of nutrition, and David Bassett, professor of exercise, sport and leisure studies. Funding will come from the UT Office of Research, UT Agricultural Experiment Station, UT Extension and the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences.

"The UT Obesity Research Center will play a significant role in the prevention and treatment of obesity in the state of Tennessee and assist in informing research and treatment practices all over the United States," said Bob Rider, dean of the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences.

The center will coordinate research on genetic and environmental factors causing obesity, develop plans for long-term prevention and treatment of obesity and disseminate the research findings to the general public. The center also will provide training for undergraduate and graduate students in obesity research, and faculty will offer seminars on the research.

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