NHS needs better plan around weight loss jabs, warn experts

Experts are calling for an immediate evaluation to ensure that residents in England have access to weight loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro through the NHS.

This follows just one day after the Prime Minister mentioned that these injections could help stimulate the UK economy by bringing overweight unemployed individuals "back into the workforce."

Over 200 doctors and experts have reached out to the health secretary to express their concerns about the overwhelming demand for obesity treatment services in the NHS, fueled by a growing number of patients seeking these medications.

They emphasize that the injections are just one component of a broader approach to care that doesn't carry any stigma.

It is said that the government needs to address several basic problems within NHS obesity services, including persistent lack of funding, difficulties related to staffing, and disparities in access to care.

The Obesity Health Alliance (OHA), which includes various health charities and medical royal colleges, is sending a letter to Wes Streeting. They have put together a report for this purpose.

According to the report, certain patients may have to wait as long as five years to see a specialist. Additionally, some services are so overwhelmed that they have stopped accepting new patients altogether.

The OHA aims to ensure that everyone has fair access to obesity treatments, such as weight loss injections.

There have been reports of a worldwide shortage of stock, and right now in the UK, the NHS is only able to provide the injections through specialized weight-loss programs.

The OHA cautions that while some patients opt for private care, a significant number still miss out on treatment.

The OHA states that around four million individuals in England qualify for Wegovy, yet NHS forecasts suggest that by 2028, less than 50,000 people annually will actually receive the treatment.

Katharine Jenner, the head of the OHA, stated that while the weight loss injections were proving to be effective, there was more to consider beyond just their success.

"Even if you're getting vaccinated, it’s important to prioritize additional care and support. Engaging in regular exercise and following nutritional guidance are also essential, yet these components seem to be lacking at the moment."

There are worries about who is able to receive this medication. It's essential that we focus on providing access to those who need it most for their health, rather than allowing other factors to influence the decision.

She mentioned that the OHA had received reports of individuals who were entitled to treatment services being denied because of their excess weight.

"They're forced to look for private healthcare, and they're not receiving the level of care and support that they would typically expect for any other type of illness," she mentioned.

"We should evaluate the current NHS services to pinpoint examples of excellent practices and recognize the common challenges that need addressing."

The anticipated green light for the NHS to introduce a new injection called Mounjaro—often referred to as the "King Kong of weight loss shots" due to its impressive performance in trials—could put additional strain on the healthcare system, according to the report.

Alfie Slade, who heads government relations at the OHA, mentioned: "The introduction of these new weight loss medications marks a significant advancement in treatment, offering renewed hope to the countless individuals finding it difficult to control their weight. However, they also highlight the shortcomings in our existing obesity support services."

If the government doesn’t take immediate action, we won't be able to address the needs of millions of patients, resulting in wider gaps in health equity.

Even though there are advantages to using Wegovy and Mounjaro, health professionals warn that these medications, which replicate a hormone that reduces appetite, are not a simple solution. Patients still need to engage in regular exercise and be mindful of their dietary choices.

Once users discontinue the medication, they may regain the weight they previously lost.

Like any medication, there may also be unwanted effects.

Medical professionals are worried about the increasing number of patients experiencing complications from weight loss medications purchased online without any medical oversight.

Often, individuals may not be receiving what they believe they are, and this can pose significant risks.

The OHA emphasizes the importance of public health initiatives aimed at preventing obesity from the outset. This includes enhancing the nation's diet and ensuring that children engage in sufficient physical activity.

NHS England stated that it is collaborating with the government and industry to create new types of services that allow for the safe, effective, and budget-friendly implementation of approved treatments.

A representative mentioned that weight loss medications would be "life-changing" and, together with early prevention programs from the NHS, would "assist more individuals in shedding pounds and lowering their chances of serious health issues such as diabetes, heart attacks, and strokes."

A representative from the Department of Health and Social Care stated that obesity expenses the NHS over £11 billion annually and also creates a considerable strain on our economy.

"Since illnesses linked to obesity are leading to increased sick days, medications designed to combat obesity can be a key part of the answer," they stated.

The representative additionally mentioned that limiting advertisements for junk food and prohibiting the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to kids would contribute to addressing the "obesity epidemic."