Australia is grappling with a worsening obesity crisis, as recent data reveals that four out of five older adults are now classified as overweight or obese. This alarming statistic has reignited discussions about the potential subsidisation of weight-loss medications such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). While many support the idea, experts caution that mere funding will not adequately address the underlying issues associated with obesity.
Dr. Giles Yeo, a Professor of Genetics at the University of Cambridge, shared his insights during an interview on Sunrise. He acknowledged that subsidising these medications would represent a positive step forward but emphasized the need for realistic expectations. “I think it is a powerful drug to treat obesity,” Dr. Yeo stated, adding, “But I get the feeling we’re still not going to get enough out there yet.”
Examining the situation in the United Kingdom, Dr. Yeo pointed to the challenges faced despite NHS subsidisation. Approximately 95 percent of users still pay out of pocket due to stringent eligibility criteria and limited availability. In Australia, access to these medications is even more restricted. Currently, Wegovy is subsidised only for patients with obesity who have previously experienced a stroke or heart attack, resulting in annual out-of-pocket costs that may reach as high as $5,000.
Dr. Yeo raised concerns about the equity implications of such limited access. He highlighted that these medications are intended for medical treatment, not cosmetic purposes. “These drugs are not cosmetic. There are too many people taking it to try and get into their bikini,” he remarked. “These drugs are to treat obesity and obesity leading to a number of other diseases.” He noted that for individuals living with severe obesity, these medications can significantly lower the risk of developing conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, and even Alzheimer’s disease.
The urgency of this issue is underscored by the fact that over 400,000 Australians are currently paying privately for these weight-loss drugs, while approximately six million Australians are affected by obesity overall. Recent developments indicate that Australian doctors are advocating for broader access to weight-loss medications through the PBS. Last week, Health Minister Mark Butler confirmed he received recommendations to list Wegovy for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 who also have established cardiovascular disease.
In a significant endorsement, the World Health Organization has approved these medications for long-term obesity treatment, although they do not work for everyone. Reports suggest that between 5% and 10% of patients do not respond to treatment for reasons that remain unclear. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and digestive discomfort, as well as potential muscle loss unless combined with weight-bearing exercise.
As discussions about government subsidies continue, Dr. Yeo warned that the obesity crisis in Australia is unlikely to be resolved solely through medication. He stated that even with public funding, demand for these treatments will likely exceed supply, necessitating a more comprehensive approach to tackle the root causes of obesity.
