Latest Cover Story | Where is the Cure for Obesity? (AI Translation)

最新封面报道｜肥胖解药何在

The academic event "China Obesity Congress," held on August 17 this year, marked its third occurrence, gathering experts from various fields to discuss obesity prevention and treatment strategies [para. 1]. The inaugural conference, held in July 2021, was initiated to advance obesity research, particularly with the approval of the weight-loss drug semaglutide in the U.S. Different aspects of obesity were highlighted each year, from raising awareness to focusing on scientific and multidisciplinary approaches [para. 2].

As of May 2023, significant advancements in drugs targeting GLP-1 for obesity treatment were evident, with Eli Lilly's Tirzepatide entering the Chinese market for diabetes treatment and attracting over 1,200 participants to this year's congress [para. 3]. Historically, obesity booths were dominated by medical device companies, but now pharmaceutical firms lead [para. 5]. GLP-1 medications emerged as superior in safety and efficacy compared to previous weight-loss drugs like fenfluramine and sibutramine [para. 6]. Before the advent of GLP-1 medications, orlistat was the sole clinically available weight-loss drug; however, GLP-1 drugs prove more effective by acting as natural appetite suppressants [para. 7].

Semaglutide and Tirzepatide, notable GLP-1 drugs, were approved for weight loss in China in 2024, with clinical data showing significant weight loss and additional health benefits [para. 10]. Global obesity rates present a growing public health problem, with over two billion adults classified as overweight or obese [para. 13]. In China, obesity is particularly severe, with half the population overweight or obese by 2018, and projections indicating 70% of the population will be overweight by 2030 [para. 15]. BMI is a key metric for assessing obesity [para. 16]. The health impact of obesity includes risks of diabetes, hypertension, and reduced life expectancy [para. 19].

Stigma surrounding obesity remains a major issue, often linking obesity with personal failings rather than recognizing it as a disease [para. 22]. New medications like semaglutide have shown promising results in weight loss, leading to significant health and emotional benefits [para. 23]. Updated guidelines from the Chinese Society of Endocrinology in July 2024 emphasize early and long-term weight management [para. 25]. Obesity management involves complex, chronic conditions requiring continuous medical intervention [para. 26]. The World Health Organization aims to release new guidelines integrating drug therapies with lifestyle and nutritional interventions [para. 28].

The establishment of specialized weight management centers and interdisciplinary collaboration is vital for effective obesity treatment [para. 29]. The "Weight Management Year" plan introduced nationally in June 2024 aims to mobilize societal efforts for comprehensive weight management [para. 31]. Effective obesity guidelines need to address long-term management and involve multidisciplinary cooperation to prevent weight rebound [para. 44].

Treating obesity also involves addressing the "weight set point" phenomenon, where the body naturally resists weight loss, leading to rebounds [para. 49]. Continuous medication usage is crucial for maintaining weight loss, with lifestyle interventions and exercise playing supportive roles [para. 55]. Side effects and long-term reliance on drugs remain a concern, highlighting the need for balanced treatment approaches [para. 64].

The integration of lifestyle changes and medication, alongside proper clinical guidelines, underscores the importance of comprehensive and continued weight management for effective health outcomes [para. 73]. The ongoing challenges include ensuring effective cooperation among various medical disciplines and adapting to new treatment methodologies to provide holistic care for obesity patients [para. 84].