Dear Editor,
I have found Newton Emerson’s perspective on the UK government’s plans for anti-obesity medication (glucagon-like peptide agonists) to be exceptionally pessimistic (“The UK’s anti-obesity jab proposal is like a scene from a science fiction movie”, Commentary and Analysis, October 17th). He describes the strategy as a way of providing such medicine to obese individuals in order for them to stop receiving benefits and be forced to start working – an interpretation that exemplifies the utmost negativity, certainly proposing a half-empty glass scenario.
Providing such costly treatments for those who are out of employment due to their obesity would aid in enhancing their life quality, extending their self-sufficiency, and reducing the necessity to address other related health problems. These can encompass sleep apnea, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and cancer. The transition from drawing on public funds for treatment to turning into contributors to the state’s finance via work and tax payments is not only beneficial for them, but also for the wider community. The individuals themselves can look forward to longer, healthier lives. It is simply unbelievable that someone could present this in a negative light. This is precisely the kind of action we expect from a responsible government.
Yours sincerely,
BRIAN O’BRIEN,
Kinsale,
County Cork.