UK proposes weight loss jabs for unemployed obese individuals to boost job prospects

United Kingdom Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, has proposed that unemployed people who are struggling to get jobs due to their weight, should be given a weight loss jab.

Even though the suggestion will be expensive on the National Health Service (NHS), Starmer told BBC that the move was important for the country’s economy and health.

"The drug is very important for our NHS, because, yes we need more money for the NHS, but we've also got to think differently,“ he was quoted as saying.

The broadcaster reported that NHS officials are recommending a staggered roll-out of the drug across England due to the expected high demand.

As it is, BBC cited NHS officials saying almost 250,000 people are expected to receive the Mounjaro jab over the next three years.

Mounjaro is used for type 2 diabetes to help lower blood sugar levels, and also helps with weight loss.

According to the Independent UK, the country’s life sciences sector will receive £279 million (over R6.4 billion) from drugs giant Eli Lilly, to invest in developing new medicines and ways to deliver treatment.

The publication said Amanda Pritchard, Chief Executive of the NHS, expressed her admiration for weight-loss jabs, referring to them as "game-changers" in helping individuals lower their risk of life-threatening conditions.

Meanwhile, big names like Elon Musk, Oprah Winfrey, Kelly Osbourne, and Sharon Osbourne are a testament to weight loss jabs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro.

Being overweight is a huge health problem around the world. South Africa is also one of the countries that struggles with obesity. In the country, half of the adults are either overweight or obese, says the Global Obesity Observatory. Out of these, 23% are overweight, and 27% are obese.

The issue isn't just with adults, as children and teenagers are also greatly affected. UNICEF reports that about one in every three girls aged 15 to 19 is dealing with obesity or is overweight.

The future does not look promising either. According to the World Obesity Federation, by 2030, the obesity rate among South African adults might jump to 37%.

sinenhlannhla.masilela@iol.co.za

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