Media Advisory
Date: 04 March 2021
Obesity is a serious issue worldwide; it has occurred as a serious risk factor for severe diseases in the current epidemic disease of Covid-19.
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University’s participation in this international event marks its contribution towards the realisation of the UN’s Sustainable Development (SDG) Goal 3 – which seeks to bring about healthy lives and promote well-being for all.
Members of the media are hereby notified of the planned activities for World Obesity Day at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, which will take place today 4 March 2021.
This year’s activities will be held virtually due to the conditions presented by Covid-19.
World renowned weight loss expert and SMU Head of Department of Surgery Professor Zach Koto will share his expertise on obesity and Covid-19. Other speakers will focus on obesity and diet, obesity and Covid-19 effects on mental health as well as metabolic surgery. There will also be testimonials from those whose lives were changed by the programme.
Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital (DGMAH)/SMU bariatric Surgery Unit is accredited to perform metabolic and bariatric surgeries, making it the first public hospital in Gauteng to do this.
“SMU as a Health Sciences University is on a mission to educate people about health related matters and make a meaningful contribution especially during these difficult times of Covid-19. We are taking a lead in ensuring that we engage with our communities, raise awareness and offer them life-changing health care services and advice through programmes such as this one focusing on Obesity, which is a very serious health hazard”, says Dr Eric Pule, SMU spokesperson.
Details of the virtual proceedings are as follows:
Date 04 March 2021
Time: 16h00 – 18h00
Link : https://tinyurl.com/smuworldbobesityday
Members of the media can make arrangements for post event interviews with the experts for more in-depth perspectives on Obesity and Bariatric surgery and other alternative ways of treating Obesity.
Issued by the Marketing & Communication
For more details, please contact Dr Eric Pule, email address eric.pule@smu.ac.za
Phone 012 521 4563 Cell: 0635035587
Website: www.smu.ac.za
