
Obesity, COVID-19 and the Urgent Case for Medical Weight Loss with Mounjaro, Wegovy and Phentermine
More than one million hospital admissions in England were linked to obesity in the year leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic—an alarming figure that underscores the scale of the UK’s growing weight crisis.
These NHS Digital statistics revealed a 17% year-on-year rise in obesity-related admissions, amounting to nearly 150,000 additional cases. While the number of admissions where obesity was the primary cause slightly decreased to 10,780, two-thirds of those cases involved women—reflecting wider gender disparities in health-seeking behaviour and diagnosis.
Beyond the numbers, this data reinforces an urgent truth: obesity is one of the strongest risk factors for severe illness and hospitalisation from COVID-19.
The Hidden Health Burden of Obesity
Obesity isn’t just about weight—it’s a chronic, systemic condition that contributes to a wide range of metabolic and inflammatory diseases. Professor Naveed Sattar, a leading metabolic health expert at the University of Glasgow, emphasises:
“Obesity is the strongest risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, heart failure, cardiovascular disease, and kidney complications. When you add the increased vulnerability to severe COVID-19, the case for early, proactive treatment becomes undeniable.”
Obesity can impair immune function, promote chronic inflammation, and create conditions that make it harder for the body to fight off infections like COVID-19. In obese individuals, fat cells may interact with the immune system in harmful ways, potentially worsening the inflammatory response and leading to clotting issues that exacerbate COVID-related complications.
COVID-19 and Weight Gain: A Vicious Cycle
Lockdowns, reduced physical activity, disrupted routines, and stress-related eating during the pandemic have contributed to widespread weight gain. For many, the pandemic created the perfect storm for unhealthy weight gain—further increasing the risk of metabolic disease and complicating recovery.
As Professor Stephen Powis, Medical Director for NHS England, stated:
“Today’s shocking figures are a growing sign of the nation’s obesity crisis, which is putting hundreds of thousands of people at greater risk of becoming severely ill with COVID, as well as heart attacks, stroke, cancer and other deadly diseases.”
Tackling Obesity with Clinical Tools: The Role of Phentermine, Wegovy, and Mounjaro
At Weight Medics, we understand that diet and exercise—while essential—aren’t always enough to overcome complex metabolic challenges, especially in those with long-standing or treatment-resistant obesity. That’s where medical weight loss treatments like Phentermine, Wegovy (semaglutide), and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) can make a critical difference.
Phentermine
Phentermine is a proven appetite suppressant that helps reduce food cravings and caloric intake. It’s particularly effective for short-term use under clinical supervision, kickstarting weight loss in patients who struggle with persistent hunger.
Wegovy (Semaglutide)
Wegovy is a once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist that works by mimicking a natural hormone involved in appetite regulation and blood sugar control. It helps patients feel full longer, eat less, and lose a significant percentage of body weight over time.
Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
Mounjaro is a next-generation dual-acting medication targeting both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. It not only supports weight loss but also significantly improves insulin sensitivity—making it especially effective for patients with prediabetes, insulin resistance, or metabolic syndrome.
Why Choose Weight Medics?
Our clinician-led programmes go far beyond traditional diet plans. We offer:
- In-depth hormonal and metabolic assessments
- Personalised nutrition, exercise, and supplement strategies
- Access to medical-grade weight loss treatments like Phentermine, Wegovy, and Mounjaro
- Ongoing expert support to help you lose weight safely and sustainably
- Don’t Wait for Another Wake-Up Call
Obesity is not a lifestyle choice—it’s a chronic disease that requires medical attention. With COVID-19 still posing a threat, taking control of your health has never been more important.
If you’ve struggled with weight gain or haven’t seen results through traditional methods, Weight Medics can help you find a medically supervised, sustainable path forward.
Book a personalised consultation today and explore how Phentermine, Wegovy, or Mounjaro can support your weight loss journey—backed by clinical insight, expert care, and long-term results.
References
NHS Digital (2020) – Statistics on Obesity, Physical Activity and Diet, England 2020
World Health Organization (WHO) – Obesity and overweight factsheet
Sattar, N., et al. (2020) – Obesity a Risk Factor for Severe COVID-19 Infection: Analysis of Existing Literature
Published in Nature Reviews Endocrinology
Public Health England (PHE) – Excess Weight and COVID-19: Insights from new evidence
National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Phentermine for Obesity Management
Wilding, J.P.H., et al. (2021) – Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity
Published in New England Journal of Medicine
Jastreboff, A.M., et al. (2022) – Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity
Published in New England Journal of Medicine
British Heart Foundation (BHF) – Obesity and Heart Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – People with Certain Medical Conditions and COVID-19 Risk