Weight-loss drugs not the solution to obesity crisis, warns NHS England director

Weight-loss medications may be a powerful tool in tackling obesity, but they are not the ultimate solution to the crisis, according to Professor Stephen Powis, NHS England's Medical Director.

Speaking at a King’s Fund conference, Professor Powis described the new weight-loss drugs as "revolutionary" and a "welcome addition" to NHS treatment options. However, he emphasised that medical intervention alone will not solve the obesity epidemic. “We cannot simply treat our way out of the obesity crisis,” Powis said. “Broader societal action on prevention is essential to stop lives from being cut short.”

While the drugs offer hope, especially for adults, Powis expressed caution about using them to treat childhood obesity, suggesting that although they may play a role in specific cases, he is hesitant to "over-medicalise" children and young people.

His comments come amid growing concern from healthcare professionals about the overwhelming demand for these new treatments. In a letter to Health Secretary Wes Streeting, over 200 doctors and medical experts, coordinated by the Obesity Health Alliance (OHA), have called for an urgent review of obesity services. They warn that current systems are unable to cope with the rising demand, especially following the introduction of new weight-loss drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro.

According to the OHA, 4.1 million people in England are eligible for treatment with Wegovy, but NHS estimates suggest fewer than 50,000 people will receive it annually by 2028, even with additional funding. This shortfall is putting a strain on existing services, highlighting the need for a comprehensive, well-resourced system to support those living with obesity.

Katharine Jenner, Director of the OHA, said: “While the drugs are safe and effective, they are adding pressure to already overstretched services. Rather than being a silver bullet, these treatments are exposing the weaknesses in our current system."

The letter calls for a fully resourced, equitable, and evidence-based system to ensure that everyone living with obesity has access to the right support, without stigma or discrimination.