Endocrine Society Unveils Center on Obesity and New Scientific Statement

What is the Endocrine Society's approach to obesity research and treatment?

The Endocrine Society is launching its new Center on Obesity, a initiative aimed at accelerating scientific understanding of obesity and advancing treatments for the one in eight people worldwide affected by the condition. The center's debut will be marked by a virtual event on September 9, which will also feature the unveiling of a new Scientific Statement, "Obesity Science, Research Gaps and Opportunities in the New Era of Obesity Medicines."

How does the Center on Obesity support the development of new obesity treatments like GLP-1-based medications?

Daniel J. Drucker, MD, a pioneer in the development of GLP-1 receptor agonist therapies, such as Semaglutide and Tirzepatide, will present the statement's key findings, while Amy E. Rothberg, MD, Chair of the Society's Obesity Task Force, will discuss how the Center will support obesity care and research. The event will explore the latest science on obesity treatments, including injectable and oral GLP-1-based medications, and emerging treatments such as GLP-1 receptor agonists.

The Scientific Statement, developed by eight experts who reviewed over 200 studies, examines the evolving landscape of obesity treatments, the latest evidence, and areas where further research is needed. The statement will be the first major publication from the Center on Obesity, which leverages members' expertise in hormonal causes and treatments of obesity to drive progress in the field.

During the event, experts will discuss topics such as the effectiveness of different treatments, gaps in obesity biology and energy homeostasis, and how treatment success can be evaluated beyond total body weight loss. The Society's efforts to improve obesity diagnosis and access to care will also be highlighted.

Members can register to attend the virtual event, which will take place from 11 AM to 12 PM ET on Wednesday, September 9. The event promises to provide valuable insights into the latest developments in obesity research and treatment, and how the Endocrine Society's Center on Obesity is working to address this growing health concern.