Novo Nordisk and Ministry Focus on Obesity in Pakistan During World Obesity Day

Novo Nordisk and the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination (MoNHSRC) marked World Obesity Day with renewed focus on addressing obesity in Pakistan. On March 4, 2026, the joint engagement was held at the MoNHSRC’s premises attended by Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, Federal State Minister for Health; H.E. Maja Mortensen, Danish Ambassador to Pakistan; Hamed Yaqoob Sheikh, Secretary MoNHSRC; Dr Abdul Wali Khan, DG Health; Hasnain Ahmad, Head of Public Affairs, Novo Nordisk; and other senior officials from the Ministry, Embassy and Novo Nordisk.

In Pakistan, the prevalence of overweight and obesity has been steadily rising, affecting both adults and children and placing additional pressure on the healthcare system. Despite its scale and impact, obesity remains widely misunderstood and often stigmatized, creating barriers to timely diagnosis and appropriate care. Against this backdrop, World Obesity Day served as an important moment for dialogue between Novo Nordisk and MoNHSRC, bringing renewed focus to science-based, long-term solutions.

The Federal State Minister for Health stated, “Obesity is emerging as a serious public health concern in Pakistan, contributing significantly to the burden of non-communicable diseases. Addressing it requires a comprehensive national approach that combines prevention, early intervention, and improved access to care. We welcome continued engagement with stakeholders to strengthen awareness and build healthier communities across the country.”

The MoNHSRC Secretary added, “Obesity is not simply about lifestyle; it is a complex, chronic disease influenced by biology, environment, and social factors. The MoNHSRC, through its PM diabetes program, is committed to improving understanding, reducing stigma, and expanding access to effective, person-centred care.”

Commenting on the occasion, Hasnain Ahmad, Head of Public Affairs at Novo Nordisk, stated, “At Novo Nordisk, turning the tide on obesity is a global priority. With 30 years of dedicated research in obesity and a century of leadership in chronic disease care, we are committed to supporting Pakistan’s efforts to improve understanding, reduce stigma, and expand access to effective, person-centred care.”

Novo Nordisk is a leading global healthcare company founded in 1923 and headquartered in Denmark. Our purpose is to drive change to defeat serious chronic diseases built upon our heritage in diabetes. We do so by pioneering scientific breakthroughs, expanding access to our medicines, and working to prevent and ultimately cure disease. Novo Nordisk employs about 68,800 people in 80 countries and markets its products in around 170 countries.