aljazeera.com
UK Trials Weight-Loss Drugs to Combat Unemployment
The UK is trialing Eli Lilly's weight-loss drugs to determine if they can reduce unemployment by improving the health of economically inactive individuals.
English
United States
HealthLabour MarketUkTrialUnemploymentWeight LossDrugs
Eli LillyNhsWorld Health OrganisationUniversity Hospital SouthamptonFood And Drug Administration
Wes StreetingKeir StarmerDavid RicksAdam GreenPhilip Newland-JonesCecilia Low Wang
- How do weight-loss drugs work?
- The hypothesis is that weight loss, achieved through medication, might improve health and thus increase the likelihood of employment for those currently economically inactive due to health issues. However, evidence for a direct causal link remains inconclusive.
- What is the unemployment rate in the UK?
- The experiment is a five-year trial in Greater Manchester involving roughly 3,000 residents. Participants will take Eli Lilly's weight-loss drugs, and researchers will observe the long-term effects on their weight and employment status.
- Is weight loss permanent if you take these drugs?
- Weight-loss drugs like Mounjaro and Wegovy suppress appetite by mimicking hormones GLP-1 and GIP. They are injected weekly and can result in significant weight loss, but this weight loss is not typically permanent; weight is usually regained if the medication is stopped.
- What is the weight loss drug experiment in the UK?
- The UK will conduct a five-year trial in Greater Manchester to study if Eli Lilly's weight-loss drugs can reduce unemployment. Around 3,000 residents will participate, observing the long-term effects of the drugs on employment.
- What have weight loss drugs got to do with unemployment?
- As of August 2024, the UK unemployment rate was 4% for those aged 16 and over actively seeking employment. The rate has decreased over the past year, with 75% of people aged 16-64 employed.