Challenges in accessing NHS prescribed Wegovy highlight gaps in the UK’s weight management services
In the UK, the rollout of the weight-loss drug Wegovy by the National Health Service (NHS) has been significantly less widespread than anticipated. Since its introduction, Wegovy has been prescribed approximately 3,300 times, a figure starkly lower than the 13,500 prescriptions projected by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (Nice) for the drug’s first year. This...Read More
Britain’s drug regulator approves Novo Nordisk’s weight loss drug Wegovy to cut heart disease risk in patients with obesity
On Tuesday, the 23rd of July, 2024, the United Kingdom’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) granted approval for an additional use of Novo Nordisk drug, semaglutide (marketed as Wegovy), targeting the reduction of cardiovascular risks in adults with overweight and obesity. Originally sanctioned for obesity treatment and weight management in conjunction with dietary,...Read More
Ireland’s new legislation to revolutionise digital health records
In a significant move to enhance healthcare management, Ireland’s Department of Health has introduced the Health Information Bill 2024, poised to revolutionise the management of digital health records across the nation. This pivotal legislation follows the approval of the Irish Government and is specifically crafted to create a comprehensive legal framework facilitating the efficient...Read More
Alarming surge in severe obesity among adolescents in Ireland
Since 2018, Ireland has witnessed a tenfold increase in referrals of adolescents to specialised obesity clinics, highlighting a critical and worsening health issue among young people. Dr. Órla Walsh, a paediatric specialist at Children’s Health Ireland in Temple Street, has expressed deep concern over the rising number of young patients exhibiting severe symptoms of obesity. Over the past six...Read More
New study finds financial rewards enhance obesity interventions for teens
A recent study has demonstrated that adolescents suffering from severe obesity achieve a more significant reduction in body mass index (BMI) when meal-replacement therapy is supplemented with financial incentives, as opposed to meal-replacement therapy alone. These findings have been documented in an article published by JAMA Pediatrics. Justin Ryder, PhD, an associate professor involved...Read More
Significant weight loss improves metabolism, mood, and decision-making in individuals with obesity
Severe obesity not only predisposes individuals to a variety of health risks but also significantly alters their metabolic functions and psychological states. Historically, it was believed that individuals with severe obesity tended to display heightened impulsivity and a greater propensity for risk-taking. However, recent research conducted by scientists at the DZD partner German Institute...Read More