Deakin University has been given World Health Organisation (WHO) Collaborating Centre status for research into obesity prevention and related nutrition and physical activity programs.
This global recognition places Australian researchers at the forefront of the international battle against obesity.
Dean of Deakin’s Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences and Victoria’s former Chief Health Officer, Professor John Catford, said that the collaborating centre status puts Deakin and Australia on the world map as leaders in the fight against obesity.
“This is an international accolade for Deakin and recognition of the wealth of expertise that exists within the University,” Professor Catford said.
“Deakin is well placed to provide this international leadership in obesity prevention as we have the largest research group in Australia working on nutrition and physical activity.”
WHO has a large world-wide network of collaborating centres that provide research, technical and training expertise integral to fulfilling its global health priorities. Deakin University is the first to focus on obesity prevention.
As a WHO Collaborating Centre Deakin will: