David Aaronovitch and Dr Ellie discuss the potential benefits of obesity jabs in reducing heart attack risks. They also talk about the new Co-op Live arena and its impact on the music industry. The podcast explores the journey of semaglutide from a diabetes drug to a weight loss wonder, highlighting regulatory challenges and the need for further research.
Semaglutide could reduce risk of heart attacks/strokes even without weight loss, revolutionizing its use.
Semaglutide challenges weight loss norms, reshaping views on obesity and societal attitudes towards health.
Deep dives
Semaglutide: Potential Benefits Beyond Diabetes and Weight Loss
Researchers, including those at University College London, presented a study highlighting the potential cardiovascular benefits of Semaglutide, a drug developed by Novo Nordisk. The study showed that even if individuals taking Semaglutide didn't lose weight, their risk of heart attacks or strokes decreased by 20% compared to those not taking the drug. This finding could revolutionize how this drug is viewed, potentially impacting cardiovascular health on a broader scale and reducing the burden on health services globally.
Semaglutide's Journey and Impact on Weight Loss
David Oronovich discussed his experience with Semaglutide, highlighting its journey from a diabetes medication to a weight loss solution favored by Hollywood celebrities. The drug's efficacy in suppressing appetite and aiding weight loss has garnered significant interest, leading to supply shortages. Despite its positive impact on individuals like David who lost weight and saw improvements in health conditions, concerns remain about access due to strict prescribing regulations.
Implications of Semaglutide on Obesity and Health Perceptions
David emphasized the need to reshape perceptions of obesity, moving away from attributing it solely to personal discipline and towards recognizing the complex interplay between health, environment, and societal attitudes. Semaglutide's effects could prompt a shift towards nuanced views on weight management and health, challenging traditional beliefs and confronting health inequalities associated with obesity. The drug's potential impact extends beyond individual weight loss to larger societal discussions on health equality and the influence of pharmaceutical solutions in addressing public health challenges.
The Evolution of Live Events and Venue Challenges
The podcast delved into the challenges faced by live event venues, such as the delayed opening of the Co-op Live arena in Manchester, impacting scheduled concerts with artists like Elbow. Matt discussed the changing dynamics of live events, including the rise in ticket prices and the need for a balance between large, technically efficient venues and smaller, atmospheric spaces. The evolving landscape of live events includes considerations for improving safety, experiences, and support for grassroots venues amidst technological advancements and audience expectations.
Today, we look a new study which suggests obesity jabs, such as Wegovy and Ozempic, could also cut the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
The drug semaglutide, which suppresses the appetite, is prescribed by the NHS and now has growing use as a “skinny jab”. Researchers have said that weekly shots could benefit the cardiovascular health of millions of adults, but the results have not yet been fully reviewed. Adam is joined by David Aaronovitch, Presenter of Radio 4’s Briefing Room, and Dr Ellie Cannon, GP and author.
And, after three weeks of delays, cancellations and chaos behind the scenes, the new Co-op Live arena is set to open for a gig. What caused the problems? And what does the venue tell us about the music industry of today? Adam speaks to Matt Everitt from Radio 6 music and Anna Foster, BBC news presenter.
You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere
Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Elliot Ryder and Sam McLaren. The technical producer was Daffyd Evans. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.
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