The World Health Organization's (WHO) newfound enthusiasm for "anti-obesity" shots in 2025 has sparked a heated debate among public health advocates. The medications, known as GLP-1s, have been widely adopted as a treatment for obesity, despite initial reservations from some quarters.
Critics argue that this shift represents a capitulation to the pharmaceutical industry and a failure to address the root causes of obesity, which are largely environmental and structural in nature. Devi Sridhar, chair of global public health at the University of Edinburgh, notes that "the solutions are simple: get people to eat more nutritious food and move." However, she also acknowledges that obesity is a pressing issue, particularly in low-income countries where access to healthy food and physical activity opportunities is often limited.
The irony, as Sridhar points out, lies in the fact that the same companies that profit from making populations obese are now profiting from offering a solution to reverse it. The WHO's recommendation for GLP-1s as a treatment for obesity has been seen by some as a way for governments to appear proactive while avoiding more fundamental changes to food systems and policies.
Sridhar herself is cautious about the role of these medications, highlighting their potential side effects and the need for careful monitoring. She also emphasizes that weight loss alone does not guarantee health benefits, particularly without adequate physical activity.
Ultimately, Sridhar's piece serves as a reminder that obesity is a complex issue requiring a multifaceted approach. While GLP-1s can be an effective tool in certain contexts, they should not replace more sustainable and equitable solutions that prioritize nutritious food and daily movement for all.
Critics argue that this shift represents a capitulation to the pharmaceutical industry and a failure to address the root causes of obesity, which are largely environmental and structural in nature. Devi Sridhar, chair of global public health at the University of Edinburgh, notes that "the solutions are simple: get people to eat more nutritious food and move." However, she also acknowledges that obesity is a pressing issue, particularly in low-income countries where access to healthy food and physical activity opportunities is often limited.
The irony, as Sridhar points out, lies in the fact that the same companies that profit from making populations obese are now profiting from offering a solution to reverse it. The WHO's recommendation for GLP-1s as a treatment for obesity has been seen by some as a way for governments to appear proactive while avoiding more fundamental changes to food systems and policies.
Sridhar herself is cautious about the role of these medications, highlighting their potential side effects and the need for careful monitoring. She also emphasizes that weight loss alone does not guarantee health benefits, particularly without adequate physical activity.
Ultimately, Sridhar's piece serves as a reminder that obesity is a complex issue requiring a multifaceted approach. While GLP-1s can be an effective tool in certain contexts, they should not replace more sustainable and equitable solutions that prioritize nutritious food and daily movement for all.
. seriously though, it's a no-brainer: if people can just get access to healthy food and regular exercise, who needs medication? but let's be real, we all know how well that's gonna fly out in low-income countries where food deserts are real 
. GLP-1s might be a temporary fix for some, but it's not a substitute for addressing the root causes of obesity. and by the way, who exactly is profiting from this? the WHO or the pharmaceutical companies that stand to make millions? 
i mean whats the point of losing weight if ur still stuck in poverty? we need 2 think bout sustainable solutions not just quick fixes 
We're still talking about obesity and the pharmaceutical industry is making a killing off it 
Devi Sridhar's right on the money when she says we need to get people eating nutritious food and moving 
Not just slapping some medication in their hands and calling it a day 
Governments are playing politics here, using these meds as a way to look like they're doing something without actually changing anything 
We need real solutions that benefit everyone, not just those with deep pockets 
. I mean, we need to address obesity, but are we just treating the symptoms instead of the real problem? Food deserts in our city are getting worse, and people can't even afford healthy food options 
. We should be focusing on making nutritious food more accessible, not relying on meds that have side effects 
. And what about those low-income countries where access is already limited? We need to think about the bigger picture here 
. GLP-1s might help some people, but they're not a long-term solution 
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. And let's be real, GLP-1s might not be the worst solution, but it's definitely not the only one 
. I just wish people would stop throwing stones and start throwing solutions 
. The key is to use these meds in conjunction with more sustainable solutions. We need to be realistic about our goals and acknowledge that weight loss alone isn't enough for true health 
. It's all about making progress, not perfection 
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. That's the only way we'll see meaningful change and a healthier future 
.
They're trying to sell us on a quick fix, but we all know that's not how it works 
. These meds might help some people, but what about those who can't afford 'em or don't have access to healthy food and exercise options? 
It just seems like another way for pharma companies to line their pockets 
. I mean, if we're gonna talk about weight loss, let's at least talk about making nutritious food more affordable and getting everyone outside playing sports