A newly announced initiative from the Korean Rare and Difficult Disease Association, in collaboration with Novo Nordisk Korea, the Community Chest of Korea, and the Korean Society for the Study of Obesity, will provide free access to obesity treatment through Wegovy for roughly 300 patients suffering from rare diseases like Prader-Willi Syndrome and Angelman Syndrome, as well as low-income individuals battling obesity. The initiative, highlighted on the 9th, is designed as a public-private partnership meant to bridge the significant barriers that low-income patients face when seeking treatment for obesity, which often exacerbates their existing rare conditions.

The need for such a program is underscored by the fact that many rare disease patients often struggle with obesity due to metabolic dysfunctions and appetite regulation issues, making it difficult for them to manage their conditions. Additionally, this new support system aims to provide continuous monitoring and management throughout the treatment process, ensuring comprehensive care is delivered from the start to the end of their journey towards recovery. Participants will be selected based on medical recommendations, taking into account their specific medical conditions and economic status.

Caspian Roseu Poulsen, the representative of Novo Nordisk Korea, stated the importance of addressing the disparities in obesity treatment, which can be significant based on social and economic conditions. He emphasized the organization's commitment to continuing efforts to enhance treatment accessibility in the future. Meanwhile, Kim Min-sun, Director of the Korean Society for the Study of Obesity, pointed out that obesity is a chronic disease that is challenging to overcome without medical intervention, highlighting the critical need for comprehensive support for vulnerable populations affected by this health issue.