Leading global healthcare company Novo Nordisk is stepping up efforts to curb the climbing obesity incidence in the country as it recently formalized its partnership with Watsons Philippines to make obesity screening services closer to the public.
Under the partnership, Novo Nordisk and Watsons will be providing obesity screening. The screening services will initially be offered across 18 Watsons stores nationwide, with trained healthcare providers on-site to conduct the assessments and offer advice to customers. For the complete list of participating outlets and schedule, follow Watsons Philippines’ official social media pages.
The initiative aims to promote early detection, prevention, and management of obesity and obesity- related diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. According to the Food and Nutrition Research Institute, 39% of Filipino adults or about four of 10 Filipinos aged 20 to 59 are living with obesity.1
“Obesity can greatly affect a person’s quality of life, which is why we at Novo Nordisk, in partnership with Watsons Philippines, are committed to raising the awareness and understanding of the public about obesity. Through the screening initiative, we aim to make screening for obesity more accessible, provide a more comprehensive assessment of a person’s obesity risk, and guide them in taking control of their well-being,” said Novo Nordisk Philippines General Manager Wei Sun.
This initiative also forms part of Novo Nordisk’s Truth About Weight campaign, which raises awareness, combats stigma, and promotes informed, science-based approaches to obesity care. Novo Nordisk is also conducting healthcare professional training through the BEAT Obesity program to equip doctors and allied health experts with updated knowledge on obesity management, while rolling out a consumer education campaign to empower Filipinos to better understand obesity as a chronic disease and seek proper medical support.
Novo Nordisk’s collaboration with Watsons Philippines is part of the healthcare company’s strategy to bolster partnerships with various organizations to reinforce the fight against obesity in the Philippines.
For Watsons, “partnering with Novo Nordisk strengthens our commitment to making preventive care more accessible and affordable. By offering free obesity screenings in our stores, we empower families with the knowledge and tools to take control of their health and live healthier lives. In Watsons we believe good health should be within reach for every Filipino,” said Joweeh
B. Liao, Watsons Philippines Director for Health Business Unit, Finance, and Property Development.
Beyond this initiative, Watsons continues to strengthen its role as a health partner for the community. With over 1,200 stores nationwide, many with extended hours and an expanding number of 24/7 outlets, Watsons ensures access to care anytime, anywhere. Customers can also order through the Watsons app, enjoy 3-hour medicine delivery, or pick up in-store for added convenience. These services are designed to support busy individuals and families in managing their health.
1 https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2025/04/10/665379/nutrition-institute-says-39-of-filipino-adults-are-obese/
