Obesity research centre is opened

A new research unit which will examine obesity, diabetes and metabolic disorders has opened.

The Institute of Metabolic Science has been set up by the University of Cambridge, Medical Research Council and Cambridge University Hospitals trust.

The institute aims to be a world leader in turning scientific discoveries in the field into patient care, the university said.

The new centre is based next to Cambridge's Addenbrooke's Hospital.

Professor Steve O'Rahilly, co-director of the institute, said: "Obesity is one of the fastest growing epidemics in the world, and it is increasing rapidly, including in vulnerable groups such as children and individuals living in the developing world.

"As obesity increases the incidence of not only diabetes but heart disease and cancer as well, the implications on public health are significant.

"The new institute will enable us to bring together scientists and clinicians to focus on obesity, diabetes and other metabolic disease which pose a growing threat to the public."