MPH2054

Nutritional issues in developing countries ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: A/Prof M Toole

Offered:
Clayton Second semester 2005 (Day)
MMS-ALFRED Second semester 2005 (Day)

Synopsis: The unit will cover the following topics: human nutrition from an evolutionary perspective; nutrition and the life cycle; global determinants of population nutrition; determinants of community and household food security; measurement of population and individual nutrition status; nutritional deficiencies of public health importance; management of acute energy malnutrition; nutrition and infection; famine detection, prevention and mitigation; nutritional impact of demographic and epidemiologic transition; maintaining food security and good nutrition; food safety issues.

Objectives: On completion of this subject, students will be able to: 1. identify and classify the major nutrients required for good human health and well-being; 2. analyse the major global and local determinants of adequate human nutrition; 3. assess the nutritional status of individuals and populations; 4. diagnose and manage acute malnutrition in children and adults; 5. identify the causative factors in the evolution of population nutrition emergencies; 6. plan programs to rehabilitate malnourished communities and to maintain and strengthen household food security; 7. understand the impact of rapid social, economic, and behavioural change on human nutrition in the form of chronic, non-communicable diseases.

Assessment: Short answer examination (50%), Essay - 3,000 words (50%)

Contact Hours: Partial block

Prerequisites: Basic computer proficiency