MUSCAT – The launch of modern anti‑obesity medication – “Wegovy” (semaglutide 2.4 mg) in the Sultanate of Oman, adds an important dimension to beat the obesity, which has emerged as a significant global epidemic, affecting approximately one billion individuals worldwide and in the Gulf region it is rapidly unfolding with the highest rates globally.
“When used appropriately and under medical supervision, “Wegovy” the Denmark-based pharmaceutical company, can support patients who need clinically proven options beyond lifestyle modification alone. Integrating such therapies into Oman’s broader obesity‑management framework enhances treatment effectiveness, supports earlier intervention, and helps to reduce long‑term complications,” said Venkat Kalyan.
Speaking at the press meet, Dr Sayyida Noor Al Busaidi, President, Oman Diabetes Association, said, In Oman, around 35 percent of the adult population are affected by obesity and another 66 percent of the population are either overweight or obese according to the National Health survey in 2017 and we are awaiting updates from the latest survey due to be published soon.
“We value the work with other stakeholders and partners including pharmaceutical partners in addressing this epidemic through enhancing multidisciplinary approach to care and building the health care professionals’ knowledge and skill capacities, and with the introduction of advanced and proven treatments,” Dr Sayyida, said.
“We are optimistic that the launch of “Wegovy” is an important step with great clinical management potentials. We will continue to work together to achieve our common goal and that is to limit the burden of obesity while working also on the prevention side, educating people and raising awareness and participating in obesity intervention programs,” she added.
Dr Amira Al Kharusi, Consultant Bariatric Medicine at National Diabetes & Endocrine Centre, revealed, that, “Obesity represents one of the most significant threats to population health and healthcare sustainability in Oman. To address it requires strong leadership, long‑term vision, and coordinated policy action across sectors. By prioritising prevention, strengthening clinical care, and investing in evidence‑based strategies, the Ministry of Health can lead a transformative response that protects the health of current and future generations.
Dr Badr Al Hadrami, President, Oman Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Society, emphasized, “obesity is a serious and chronic disease, and a leading contributor to multiple comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. Also highlighted the importance of GLP-1 therapies like Wegovy®️, which play a vital role in improving health outcomes and saving lives by offering patients an effective tool to manage obesity.”
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