The World Obesity Federation, the Health & Fitness Association, AUSactive, Exercise New Zealand, Fitness Industry Council of Canada, ukactive, and World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry today released a joint position statement calling on governments, health systems, and international institutions to ensure that as obesity medications—including GLP-1 therapies—are scaled globally, they are supported by subsidized, integrated lifestyle interventions, with physical activity and nutrition embedded as essential elements of care.
With nearly three billion adults worldwide who are overweight or living with obesity—a figure projected to rise to four billion by 2035—the organizations emphasize that while obesity medications represent a significant clinical advancement, they must be deployed within comprehensive, integrated care models that prioritize long-term health outcomes. They are not a stand-alone solution.
The joint statement warns that reliance on medication alone may lead to poor long-term outcomes, including loss of muscle mass, diminished functional capacity, and widening health inequalities if access to supportive services is limited. Instead, the organizations call for a “wraparound” approach that combines pharmacological treatment with sustained investment in physical activity, nutrition, and supportive environments.
“Obesity is a complex, chronic disease that requires a comprehensive and coordinated response,” the organizations state. “Medications can play an important role, but they are not a stand-alone solution. Their success will depend on whether they are integrated into systems that support prevention, long-term behavior change, and overall well-being.”
The statement outlines key actions for global policymakers and health system leaders, including:
- Embedding obesity medications within integrated care models that include funded access to physical activity and nutrition support
- Protecting and expanding investment in prevention infrastructure and community-based programs
- Ensuring equitable access to both treatment and supportive services
- Measuring outcomes beyond weight, including functional health and long-term maintenance
- Aligning health and economic policy to recognize the value of prevention