GLP-1s—From Gut Hormone Discovery to a Public Health Revolution: A Healthy Dialogue With Jens Juul Holst and Lotte Bjerre Knudsen

GLP-1 was first studied as a gut hormone involved in controlling insulin and blood sugar. Researchers later found that it also affects appetite and food intake, which opened the way for the development of GLP-1 receptor agonist medicines.

These medicines are now used for conditions including type 2 diabetes and obesity. The discussion also highlights benefits seen in areas such as cardiovascular and kidney health, while noting challenges including side effects, high costs, unequal access and uncertainty about some long-term effects.

GLP-1 medicines have changed the treatment of diabetes and obesity and are now being used by a growing number of people. Their development shows how scientific discoveries can lead to treatments with wide public health importance.

At the same time, medicines are only one part of the response to obesity. Cost, access, possible side effects and long-term outcomes also need attention.

Obesity and type 2 diabetes affect large numbers of people worldwide. Medicines that improve blood sugar control and support weight loss can have important public health benefits, particularly when they also reduce the risk of cardiovascular and kidney problems.

However, wider use also raises questions about affordability, fair access and how these medicines should fit alongside healthier food, physical activity and broader social changes.

As GLP-1 medicines become more widely used, health systems may need to consider affordability, access, appropriate prescribing and long-term monitoring.

The discussion also makes clear that medicines should not replace wider efforts to improve nutrition, physical activity, health education and the social conditions that contribute to obesity.