Session Description
Changing the Game of Obesity Care Across Lifespan: Policies, Diets, and Drug Innovation
This plenary presentation will delve into the transformative landscape of obesity care, emphasizing the integration of innovative policies, dietary strategies, and pharmacological advancements. We will explore how these elements collectively reshape treatment paradigms across different life stages, from childhood through adulthood. By examining recent policy initiatives, we will highlight their impact on public health frameworks and access to care. Furthermore, we will discuss the latest dietary interventions that align with personalized medicine approaches, promoting sustainable lifestyle changes. The session will also cover cutting-edge drug innovations that offer new hope for effective weight management. Attendees will gain insights into how these evolving strategies can be implemented in clinical practice to improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of obesity. This comprehensive overview aims to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge to advocate for and implement holistic, evidence-based approaches in obesity care.
Incretins: The Silver Bullet
High dose analogues of GLP-1, including semaglutide or tirzepatide (a GLP-1 and GIP coagonist), have revolutionized the therapy of metabolic disease. Weight losses close to those of bariatric surgery are achieved in people with obesity, A1c levels below 5.7 % in people with T2DM. Risk of developing T2D can be almost eliminated in obesity and prediabetes, and treatment reduces risk of cardiovascular, liver, kidney and brain (dementia) complications, including all-cause mortality. Also, the risk of obesity-related cancers is reduced. Because of inhibition of reward mechanisms, part of the appetite reducing effect, GLP-1 therapy is also associated with lower incidence of alcohol and opioid use disorders. To understand the plethora of actions, focus is directed towards the GLP-1 effects on the vasculature and the effects on inflammation. Therapy should be focused on those with increased morbidity and mortality because of the metabolic syndrome. Efficient paradigms for long-term therapy are needed.