New regional obesity initiative marks significant shift in public health strategy
In a landmark move, Northern Ireland’s health service is set to offer weight loss injections for the very first time, as part of a newly announced Regional Obesity Management Service. The initiative, due to commence early next year, is being heralded as a vital step forward in the battle against obesity across the region.
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt confirmed the rollout this week, stating: “This phase will focus on the development of a community-based service where patients will have access to lifestyle support as well as obesity medication, if clinically appropriate.”
Currently, patients in Northern Ireland have no access to specialist weight management services, including the use of weight loss injections or medications through the health service.
A spokesperson for the Department of Health acknowledged the gap: “Currently, health service patients in NI do not have access to specialist weight management provision – including innovative weight loss injections/medications.”
They added: “This service will support access to weight loss medication in line with NICE guidance.”
The implementation of this new service will be rolled out gradually, ensuring safety and efficacy throughout. “Rollout will be carefully managed in a phased manner to ensure that treatment is provided in a safe and effective manner,” the Department confirmed.
Future stages of the programme will explore more intensive interventions, including bariatric surgery.
Describing the new service as a “very significant step forward,” Mr Nesbitt acknowledged the financial pressure on the health system but said the importance of tackling obesity could not be ignored. “I have many competing demands on a seriously overstretched budget but I was determined to prioritise this area.”
He continued: “Obesity is a significant public health issue in Northern Ireland, with 65 per cent of adults and 26 per cent of children living with obesity or overweight.”
The health risks linked to obesity are stark. “Those living with being overweight or obese are at a higher risk of a range of major health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and some cancers,” Mr Nesbitt warned.
He reiterated his long-term vision for Northern Ireland’s health system: “As I have repeatedly emphasised, my ambition is to shift our health service’s focus from treating ill people to helping them stay healthy.”
With the annual cost of obesity in Northern Ireland estimated at a staggering £414 million, this new initiative is not just a medical intervention — it’s a strategic economic measure too.
The upcoming service will integrate lifestyle coaching and medical treatment to support healthier living, aiming to curb the growing obesity epidemic and its far-reaching consequences on public health and NHS resources.
