- Unordinary Partnerships for a Healthier Future: Novo Nordisk Leads Dialogue on Combating Obesity
ISLAMABAD – In a powerful step toward improving public health outcomes in Pakistan, Novo Nordisk Pakistan hosted a high-level event titled “Unordinary Partnerships to Shape a Healthier Tomorrow”, bringing together leading healthcare professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders to address the rising challenge of serious chronic diseases, particularly obesity.
The event was honored by the presence of H.E. Jakob Linulf, Ambassador of Denmark to Pakistan, who underscored Denmark’s strong commitment to supporting health innovation and collaboration through companies like Novo Nordisk operating in the region.
“Partnerships are essential in the fight against obesity,” said Ambassador Linulf during his keynote address. “Together, we can foster a healthier society and defeat obesity. I am confident that this culture of collaboration and innovation will continue to positively impact the people of Pakistan.”
Ambassador Linulf’s remarks reflected Denmark’s broader commitment to global health, sustainability, and support for initiatives that address non-communicable diseases through innovation and inclusive partnerships.
Rashed Rafique Butt, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Pakistan, highlighted the organization’s century-long legacy of pushing boundaries in chronic disease management. “Our GLP-1 treatment, grounded in over 25 years of obesity research, supports millions worldwide in achieving effective weight loss. To address obesity, we must unite across sectors — from government and healthcare to communities and civil society,” he noted.
Leading Pakistani medical experts added urgency to the dialogue. Dr. Javed Akram, President of the Pakistan Society of Internal Medicine, noted that obesity affects nearly 38 million Pakistanis and is officially classified as a disease by the World Health Organization. Dr. A.H. Amir, President of the Pakistan Society of Obesity, called for placing obesity at the center of public health discussions, emphasizing the need for awareness, prevention, and destigmatization.
The event concluded with a resounding call for sustained, multisectoral collaboration. Novo Nordisk Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to leading the fight against obesity in Pakistan, aiming for a future where healthier, longer lives are not a privilege, but a right for all.
About Novo Nordisk
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 77,400 people in 80 countries and markets its products in around 170 countries.
BY: The Times Union
