China is intensifying efforts to prevent and manage chronic diseases, particularly those related to weight control, according to Lei Haichao, head of the National Health Commission (NHC). The initiative includes guiding healthcare institutions to establish specialized weight clinics, which will provide professional consultation services for individuals struggling with weight issues.
During a conference at the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), known as the Two Sessions, Lei emphasized that chronic non-communicable diseases are the primary health risk for the Chinese population. He identified abnormal weight as a key contributor to conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, fatty liver, and even some cancers.
“We will encourage medical and health institutions to set up weight clinics, providing a professional and supportive environment for individuals dealing with weight challenges,” Lei said. “With the expertise of healthcare professionals, individuals will be able to better manage their weight and lead healthier lives.”
Experts agree that chronic diseases, particularly those associated with metabolic disorders, are on the rise. Ge Junbo, a member of the CPPCC Standing Committee and director of the cardiology department at Zhongshan Hospital, highlighted the connection between cardiovascular diseases and factors like overnutrition, obesity, and diabetes. He cautioned that the long-term risks of poor health habits often manifest decades later, citing that patients suffering from sudden myocardial infarctions likely had undetected vascular issues for years.
Further insights were provided by Ji Linnong, director of endocrinology at Peking University People’s Hospital. He noted that newer weight-loss treatments, such as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, are expected to play a significant role in obesity management. However, Ji emphasized that individuals seeking weight-loss solutions should consult healthcare professionals for proper evaluation and treatment.
Professor Qu Shen from Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital also underscored the importance of clear diagnostic criteria for obesity, noting that it is no longer useful to debate whether obesity qualifies as a disease. Instead, he stressed the necessity of classifying obesity accurately to guide personalized treatment strategies.
The focus on weight control and chronic disease prevention marks a crucial step in China’s ongoing efforts to address the rising burden of lifestyle-related health issues.
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