Despite rising obesity rates nationwide, outdated perceptions continue to prevent people from receiving the care they deserve. This session aims to reframe the conversation—moving away from blame and toward support, understanding, and science-based solutions. As noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) continue to rise, many of them linked to weight-related conditions, this discussion couldn’t come at a more crucial time.
According to a recent survey conducted by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI), four out of ten adult Filipinos are currently obese. Significant shifts in health patterns are seen in this trend. Children and teenagers also confront difficulties since changes in lifestyle, a rise in processed food intake, and a decrease in physical activity all lead to health problems for future generations. Obesity is a major contributor to a number of severe chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and several types of cancer, although it is sometimes overlooked due to other health issues.
“Obesity is one of the most misunderstood and undertreated health challenges we face today. It is not merely a lifestyle choice, it is a pressing serious chronic disease. Through the Truth About Weight campaign, we seek to empower Filipinos with accurate information and helpful resources to help them understand obesity as a disease and encourage them to access the care they need.” ~Wei Sun, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines
Novo Nordisk, a global initiative leading the battle against obesity through awareness, education, and advocacy, is pleased to begin its 'Truth About Weight' campaign in the Philippines in recognition of the pressing nature of this public health issue. With a dedication to bettering patient outcomes and 25 years of focused research on obesity treatment worldwide, Novo Nordisk wants to change the stigma associated with obesity to one of understanding and support.
Obesity is a Disease
The core premise of the Truth About Weight campaign is that obesity is a chronic, complicated disease that is influenced by hormones, environmental factors, psychology, and heredity. It is not only the product of bad lifestyle choices.
"Unfortunately, weight stigma and misinformation are deeply ingrained in our society. Individuals affected by obesity often face shame and judgment, not only externally but also within healthcare environments. This stigma can prevent them from seeking the treatment they deserve.” ~Dr. Ma. Corazon del Mundo, psychiatrist and diplomate member of Philippine Psychiatric Association (PPA)
The goal of the Truth About Weight campaign is to dispel myths and the stigma associated with obesity. The Truth About Weight website, which acts as an extensive reference center, is at the heart of this campaign. Along with a free weight health risk assessment, educational materials, motivational stories to foster awareness, and resources to help people seek professional assistance, it provides scientific insights into the nature of weight and obesity.
“Our goal is to shift the conversation from blame to understanding and from stigma to support. Obesity transcends mere aesthetics; it is a legitimate disease that warrants serious attention, robust resources, and, above all, compassion.” ~Dr. Cyrus Pasamba, senior medical manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines
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| Dr. Cyrus Pasamba, senior medical manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines |
By visiting the Truth About Weight website, Novo Nordisk encourages all Filipinos to take an active role in their health. In addition to offering a free health risk assessment, this website gives users access to trustworthy, fact-based data around obesity. Filipinos are urged to discuss the campaign's findings with their loved ones and to seek medical advice if they have any weight-related worries.
“The silence surrounding obesity must end. It is a disease that we must treat with urgency and seriousness. The Truth About Weight campaign is more than an awareness initiative; it is a movement toward change, dignity, and improved health for every Filipino.” ~Ms. Wei Sun, Novo Nordisk Philippines General Manager
For more information about the Truth About Weight campaign and to access valuable resources, visit Truth About Weight website.
For more information, visit Novo Nordisk Philippines, Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn and YouTube.
Novo Nordisk is a leading global healthcare company founded in 1923 and headquartered in Denmark and has been existing in the Philippines for more than 25 years. Our purpose is to drive change in defeating serious chronic diseases built upon our heritage in diabetes. We do so by pioneering scientific breakthroughs, expanding access to our medicines, and working to prevent and ultimately cure disease. Novo Nordisk employs about 76,300 people in 80 countries and markets its products in around 170 countries.
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