KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 28 — In conjunction with International Women’s Day and World Obesity Day, Novo Nordisk Pharma (Malaysia) together with the Malaysian Obesity Society (MYOS) and Malaysian Endocrine and Metabolic Society (MEMS), recently hosted an inspiring event themed “Bold and Unbound: Leading the Charge in Reshaping Societal Perceptions of Obesity.”
This event brought together health care professionals, advocates, and people living with obesity to address obesity stigma and promote inclusive health.
Women play a crucial role in health care decision-making and are often the pillars of their homes, making their leadership in this event particularly impactful.
According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023, one in two people in Malaysia are either overweight or obese1, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address this growing health crisis.
Additionally, it is estimated that women represent 70 per cent of health workers globally, underscoring their significant influence in the healthcare sector.
Cihan Serdar Kizilcik, general manager of Novo Nordisk Pharma Malaysia, delivered an opening speech that underscored the company’s unwavering commitment to addressing serious chronic diseases such as obesity.
“At Novo Nordisk, we recognise that obesity is a chronic disease, not a personal failing. Our mission is to create an inclusive environment that supports those affected by obesity.
“We are also dedicated to addressing the interconnected issues of cardio-kidney-metabolic (CKM) health, advocating for comprehensive solutions that promote overall wellbeing.
“Together, we can reshape societal perceptions of obesity and foster a more compassionate and understanding community.”
The panel discussion featured expert insights from speakers including Dr Noraryana Hassan, Deputy Director of Non-Communicable Diseases, Ministry of Health (MOH), who emphasised the public health impact of obesity stigma and the importance of integrated management for its mitigation.
She also provided an in-depth insight into the current obesity burden in Malaysia, particularly among women, and highlighted the key challenges in addressing stigma and societal perceptions surrounding obesity.
She stressed that comprehensive strategies, in collaboration with bodies like MYOS, are essential to tackle obesity stigma effectively.
A particularly moving segment of the event was the sharing of personal experiences by an individual living with obesity. Her story underscored the real-world impact of obesity stigma and the need for empathy and understanding in health care and societal settings.
“Living with obesity has been a challenging journey. Even since my adolescence, it has been a struggle to lose weight. However, more importantly I am happier now that I have gained my health, and nothing is more precious than health itself,” said Aida Tahir.
Prof Dr Rohana Abdul Ghani, MYOS president and senior consultant endocrinologist, stressed the need for a united, interdisciplinary approach to tackle obesity and its related health issues.
“Obesity is a complex health condition that demands a comprehensive and compassionate response. With obesity now included in the NHMS 3+1, which highlights the three major non-communicable diseases (diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol) plus one (obesity), we must shift societal perceptions to foster empathy, understanding, and appropriate medical treatment,” she emphasised.
Dr Nurain Mohd Noor, head of the Endocrinology Subspecialty Service of MOH and MEMS president, called for widespread awareness and education on obesity and metabolic health.
“Promoting a comprehensive and holistic approach to treatment and support that empowers individuals and communities is essential. Collaborative efforts between medical professionals, policymakers, pharmaceutical companies and advocacy groups are crucial to creating a more supportive and understanding environment for individuals impacted by obesity stigma,” she urged.
Novo Nordisk Pharma Malaysia remains committed to supporting efforts to combat obesity stigma and promote inclusive health.
The “Bold and Unbound: Leading the Charge in Reshaping Societal Perceptions of Obesity” event will set a precedent for future initiatives, highlighting the strength and leadership of women in driving positive change and breaking down stigmas associated with obesity.
