Chulalongkorn University and Novo Nordisk Transform Obesity Management Through Innovative Collaboration
Chulalongkorn University, in partnership with the Faculty of Medicine, the King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, and the Thai Red Cross Society, has launched a project focused on improving obesity management. The initiative, titled “Chulalongkorn x Novo Nordisk: Elevating Obesity Management with Innovation,” aims to enhance healthcare communication and provide accurate information on obesity prevention and management through the use of digital technologies. The project was officially launched on April 3, 2025, at Chulalongkorn Hospital.
Current Obesity Statistics
Current statistics indicate that more than 40% of individuals in Thailand are classified as either overweight or obese, resulting in significant economic repercussions due to increased healthcare costs and decreased productivity. A multifaceted approach involving various sectors is necessary to effectively address the rates of obesity.
Educational Initiatives
Associate Professor Dr. Chanchai Sittipunt, who serves as the Director of the King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, emphasized the critical role of education and innovation in combating obesity. He advocated for cooperative efforts among diverse sectors to support individuals experiencing obesity.
Treatment and Management Strategies
Professor Dr. Suthep Udomsawaengsup, who heads the Obesity Clinic at Chulalongkorn University, stated that effective obesity treatment should start with dietary management and regular physical activity. He also introduced “ObesityConnects,” a Line OA platform designed to provide patients with valuable information, facilitate access to trusted resources, and enable direct consultations with healthcare professionals to enhance post-treatment care.
Collaboration with Novo Nordisk
Enrico Cañal Bruland, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Pharma (Thailand) Co., Ltd., noted the importance of the collaboration with Chulalongkorn University and recognized their joint expertise in striving for significant improvements in obesity management practices in Thailand.
Previous Initiatives
Previously, both institutions have participated in initiatives aimed at raising awareness about obesity, including the “100K Obesity Run” and events that discuss how urban environments can influence obesity rates.
Call for Comprehensive Strategies
The launch of the project underscores the need for collaboration among government entities, private organizations, and academic institutions to devise comprehensive strategies for sustainable obesity management. Novo Nordisk has introduced several innovations in obesity treatment, making Thailand the first Southeast Asian country to gain access to these advanced healthcare options, which prioritize not only weight loss but also the enhancement of essential bodily functions such as those of the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Features of the Obesity Connects Platform
Additionally, the “Obesity Connects” platform includes features such as interactive communication with healthcare providers, personalized weight management tools, and reliable obesity-related resources, including information from the Truth About Weight website, which is supported by Novo Nordisk.
Conclusion
This collaboration exemplifies a strategic effort to address the rising obesity crisis in Thailand, highlighting the integration of healthcare innovation and community involvement.
(Source: Chulalongkorn University)
