Fighting Obesity: Novo Nordisk Launches ‘Truth About Weight’ Campaign in PH

With obesity rapidly becoming a major health concern in the country, Novo Nordisk is stepping up its efforts to raise awareness and spark meaningful conversations. According to the latest data from the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI), four out of ten Filipino adults are now living with obesity—a worrying trend that impacts not only adults but also children and adolescents as lifestyle changes, unhealthy diets, and lack of physical activity contribute to rising health risks.

Despite its widespread impact, obesity often remains misunderstood. It’s commonly mistaken as a result of poor lifestyle choices, when in fact, it is a complex and chronic disease influenced by genetics, hormones, psychological factors, and environmental conditions. Recognizing the urgency, Novo Nordisk has launched the ‘Truth About Weight’ campaign in the Philippines to provide accurate information, promote compassion, and fight the stigma surrounding obesity.

“Obesity is not simply about willpower—it’s a chronic disease that deserves proper care and attention,” says Wei Sun, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines. “Through this campaign, we aim to empower Filipinos with science-backed knowledge and encourage them to seek professional support without fear or shame.”

The campaign offers valuable resources through its dedicated website, where visitors can access educational content, personal stories, and a free weight health risk assessment. By providing easy-to-understand medical insights and tools, the campaign encourages people to take charge of their health and better understand the factors driving obesity.

Dr. Ma. Corazon del Mundo, a psychiatrist and member of the Philippine Psychiatric Association, highlighted how weight stigma can prevent people from getting the care they need. “Many individuals living with obesity experience shame and judgment, even in healthcare settings. This stigma discourages them from seeking help and delays crucial interventions,” she explains.

Novo Nordisk’s campaign calls on all Filipinos to break the silence around obesity and treat it with urgency and empathy. “Obesity is not just about appearance—it’s a serious disease linked to life-threatening conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease,” says Dr. Cyrus Pasamba, senior medical manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines. “We need to shift from blame to understanding, from stigma to support.”

To learn more and take the first step towards better health, Filipinos are encouraged to visit the Truth About Weight website.