Obesity Treatments Should Not Be Seen as Competing with Each Other

Obesity is a complex, chronic, and relapsing disease that requires a nuanced and individualised approach to treatment. With an estimated 213 million adults living with obesity and an additional 255 million living with overweight in the WHO European Region—more than 66% of the adult population (source: World Obesity Federation Obesity Atlas 2024)—the need for effective, accessible treatment options has never been more urgent.

Pharmaceutical treatments for obesity have made remarkable strides in recent years and can help regulate appetite, improve metabolic function, and support weight loss. These medications are a significant advancement, and it’s crucial to understand that they are most effective as part of a comprehensive approach. Rather than considering weight management programmes, surgery, or pharmacology treatments, we should view each as a potential tool within a personalised treatment strategy.

Obesity is a progressive disease and, like many chronic conditions, requires a dynamic approach. Therefore, individuals may benefit from a combination of treatments, including medication, behavioural therapy, and potentially surgery, at different stages of their journey. This evolving need underscores the importance of a lifelong, adaptable management plan tailored to the individual’s changing needs.

Treating obesity effectively requires a tailored approach that considers each person’s unique medical history, psychological needs, and lifestyle factors. There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Recognising this can help reduce the stigma surrounding obesity treatment and encourage more individuals to seek help.

As obesity continues to drive a range of non-communicable diseases, making all forms of treatment widely available is essential for improving public health outcomes. Rather than pitting treatments against each other, integrating a variety of interventions can offer the best chance for sustainable health improvements. Only by embracing a comprehensive, personalised strategy can we begin to address the true scale of the obesity crisis.