Why in the News?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first global guidelines (Dec 1, 2025) supporting the use of GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) drugs as long-term treatment for obesity in adults, alongside diet and exercise.
These guidelines emphasise equitable access, affordability, and caution about long-term safety.
What are GLP-1 Drugs?
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Key WHO Recommendations
Conditional approval for adults
- GLP-1 drugs may be used for long-term obesity management
- Excluded: pregnant women
- Reason for “conditional” status:
- Limited long-term efficacy & safety data
- Uncertainty about outcomes after discontinuation
- High cost and global inequity in access
Must be combined with lifestyle interventions
- Balanced diet + regular physical activity remain essential
- Drugs cannot replace behavioural changes
Equity and affordability
- WHO urges:
- Generics development
- Insurance coverage
- Lower pricing
- Obesity’s global economic cost projected to reach $3 trillion by 2030
| A company marketing food product advertises that its items do not contain trans-fats. What does this campaign signify to the customers? (2011)
1. The food products are not made out of hydrogenated oils. 2. The food products are not made out of animal fats/oils. 3. The oils used are not likely to damage the cardiovascular health of the consumers. (a) 1 only (c) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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