DIETOTERAPIA NELLE DIVERSE FASI DELLA VITA

Module ENDOCRINOLOGIA

The course aims to deepen students’ understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms of the major endocrine and metabolic diseases across the different stages of life, from puberty to menopause. It will also examine certain clinical conditions in adulthood and the role of diet in their prevention and treatment.

Knowledge and understanding

Students will acquire knowledge of:

-    the pathophysiology of major endocrine disorders across the different stages of life

-    the interactions between nutrition and the endocrine system

Applying knowledge and understanding

Students will be able to:

-    apply endocrinological knowledge to dietary therapy

-    tailor nutritional interventions to different life stages

Making judgements

Students will develop the ability to:

-    assess the nutritional status of patients with endocrine disorders

-    identify nutritional priorities and critical issues

Communication skills

The student will be able to:

-    communicate effectively with patients using appropriate technical language and adapting it to different professional and clinical contexts

-    interact with the multidisciplinary team

Learning skills

The student will be able to:

-    develop autonomy in keeping up with scientific advancements

-    develop a critical approach to patient management

Lectures and theoretical-practical classes in the classroom

Discussion of clinical cases

Guided in-depth studies

If the course is taught in a blended or distance learning format, necessary adjustments may be made to the above in order to adhere to the planned curriculum outlined in this syllabus.

Attendance at classes is mandatory according to the degree program regulations.

- Iodine intake and iodine deficiency disorders

- Puberty 

- Diabetes and pregnancy

- Menopause

- Calcium metabolism and osteoporosis

- Ovarian cycle and polycystic ovary syndrome

- Endocrinologia e Metabolismo, F. Trimarchi, D. Cucinotta, Editore: EDAS, 2010

- Vanozzi G- Leandro G. Lineamenti di Dietoterapia e nutrizione clinica, Il Pensiero Scientifico Editore, 2009

Materials provided in class (slides, scientific publications for further reading, guidelines).

Assessment Method

The exam consists of an oral interview in which questions will be asked on various topics covered in the syllabus. The assessment will consider the following evaluation criteria, consistent with the Dublin Descriptors:

-    level of knowledge and understanding of the topics covered in the syllabus

-    ability to apply knowledge clinically

-    ability to think critically

-    clarity of expression and appropriate use of technical language

Assignment of the Exam Grade

The exam consists of an interview in which questions will be asked on various topics covered in the curriculum. The evaluation will consider the following assessment criteria, consistent with the Dublin Descriptors:

-    level of knowledge and understanding of the topics covered in the curriculum

-    ability to apply knowledge clinically

-    ability to think critically

-    clarity of expression and appropriate use of technical language

Exam Grading

The following criteria will be considered when assigning the final grade:

Failed:

Knowledge and understanding of the subject matter: significant gaps and inaccuracies

Ability to analyze and synthesize: negligible, frequent generalizations

Grade 18–21:

Knowledge and understanding of the subject matter: minimal knowledge, obvious shortcomings

Ability to analyze and synthesize: barely sufficient

Grade 22–25:

Knowledge and understanding of the subject matter: fair knowledge

Ability to analyze and synthesize: fair ability to analyze and synthesize, argues in

a logical and coherent manner

Grade 26–28:

Knowledge and understanding of the subject matter: good knowledge

Ability to analyze and synthesize: demonstrates good analytical and synthesis skills; arguments

are presented coherently

Grade 29–30 with honors:

Knowledge and understanding of the subject: excellent and in-depth knowledge

Ability to analyze and synthesize: demonstrates remarkable analytical and synthesis skills

 The final grade will be calculated as the weighted average of the grades obtained in the other modules.

Assessments may also be conducted online, should circumstances require it.

To ensure equal opportunity and in compliance with applicable laws, interested students may request a personal interview to plan any compensatory and/or accommodative measures, based on the educational objectives and their specific needs. You may also contact the CInAP (Center for Active and Participatory Integration — Services for Disabilities and/or Specific Learning Disabilities) liaison professor in your department (https://www.cinap.unict.it/content/referenti).

- Iodine intake

- Nutritional therapy in pregnancy

- Weight gain in pregnancy 

- Menopause

- Osteoporosis 

- Polycystic ovary syndrome