A paper, led by researchers from the University of East Anglia and the University of Bristol, observes that obesity is not always prioritised in primary care. Clinicians face time pressures, lack specialist training, and must navigate complex referral systems. Weight stigma – including within healthcare settings – also discourages patients from seeking help.

The researchers find that new medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, offer promising treatment options. However, many primary care professionals feel unprepared to use them effectively. The authors call for clearer referral pathways, better education for clinicians, and a stronger focus on personalised care.

Dr Karen Coulman and Dr Ruth Mears, co-authors of the study from the Centre for Academic Primary Care at the University of Bristol, said: ‘Primary care is uniquely placed to support people with obesity, but we need to make it easier for clinicians to do this well. That means better training, simpler systems, and tackling the stigma that still surrounds weight.

‘We hope these findings will inform future policy and help unlock the full potential of primary care in addressing one of the UK's most pressing public health challenges.'

Obesity affects over a quarter of adults in the UK, costing the NHS billions of pounds each year, and is expected to rise sharply by 2050.