health
Health conversations around weight and lifestyle have become more common in recent years as obesity rates continue to rise across the world. Yet despite its growing prevalence, obesity is still often misunderstood and reduced to questions of self-control or lifestyle choices alone. Medical experts, however, increasingly view it as a chronic condition linked to several long-term health complications.
Against this backdrop, Novo Nordisk, the Danish global healthcare company known for its work in diabetes and chronic disease care, launched its ‘Live Lighter’ initiative in Pakistan at an event held at Mohatta Palace, Karachi. The event brought together healthcare leaders, policymakers, media representatives and influencers to encourage greater awareness and discussion around obesity care in the country.
Obesity has been linked to more than 200 medical conditions, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, kidney and liver disorders, and certain cancers. Experts at the event highlighted how delayed treatment and stigma surrounding obesity continue to affect patients and place additional pressure on healthcare systems.
Speaking at the event, Maja Mortensen, Ambassador of Denmark to Pakistan, spoke about the importance of collaboration in improving healthcare outcomes. She said, “Tackling complex health challenges like obesity requires collaboration, innovation and a shared commitment to improving lives. Denmark has a strong legacy in healthcare innovation, and it is encouraging to see this expertise contributing to meaningful progress in Pakistan’s healthcare landscape.” Prof. Emerita Tasnim Ahsan, Dean of Medicell Institute of Diabetes Endocrinology & Metabolism and Director at OMI Hospital, also addressed the audience and stressed that obesity management is often more complex than lifestyle changes alone. She said, “Every patient’s journey is unique and weight management remains challenging for many people because of their biology and for some, that biology means lifestyle changes alone may not be enough.”
She further added, “Just as we would not ask a patient with diabetes or hypertension to manage their condition through willpower alone, there are patients living with obesity for whom medical intervention, guided by a physician, becomes not just appropriate but necessary. I encourage people living with obesity to speak openly with their doctors about all the options available to them.”
Meanwhile, Rashed Rafique Butt, Representative of Novo Nordisk Pakistan, said obesity needed to become a more central part of healthcare discussions. “For too long, obesity has been reduced to a question of willpower alone. Science tells us otherwise,” he said, while highlighting the company’s long-term focus on obesity research and treatment.
As part of its broader global efforts, Novo Nordisk said it aims to continue expanding access to obesity care and treatment options across different markets, including Pakistan, in line with local regulatory requirements.
- You! desk
