Bangkok, April 2025 – Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with Novo Nordisk Pharma (Thailand) Ltd., has officially launched “Chulalongkorn x Novo Nordisk: Enhancing Obesity Management through Innovative Collaboration” at the Rattanawithayapat Building, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital. This initiative marks a significant public-private partnership aimed at improving access to reliable obesity information and promoting more effective management through digital engagement.
With more than 40% of Thai individuals currently classified as overweight or obese, the economic impact is already estimated at 1.2% of GDP, a figure projected to rise to 4.9% without intervention. The programme underscores the urgent need for cross-sector collaboration to address the growing obesity crisis in Thailand.
At the heart of the initiative is the launch of the Obesity Connects Line Official Account (LineOA), a two-way communication platform that allows individuals with obesity to connect directly with healthcare professionals. The LineOA provides access to resources such as The Truth About Weight, helping to promote evidence-based understanding and ongoing support.
The event featured testimonials from users of the platform and brought together representatives from both Chulalongkorn University and Novo Nordisk to highlight the importance of innovation in health communication.
Associate Professor Chanchai Sittipunt, Director of King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Chulalongkorn University, emphasised that “solving obesity requires a foundation of knowledge, innovation, and multi-sector collaboration.”
Professor Suthep Udomsawaengsup, Head of the Obesity Clinic at Chulalongkorn University, added that “digital innovations such as the Obesity Connects Line OA enable patients to access trusted information and maintain communication with healthcare teams—key to better long-term outcomes.”
Mr Enrico Cañal Bruland, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Pharma (Thailand) Ltd., expressed optimism about the partnership. “We are proud to partner with a leading institution like Chulalongkorn University. Together, we can drive meaningful progress in obesity prevention and care,” he said.
This collaboration builds on previous joint efforts, including the 100K Obesity Run, public discussions on urban health strategies, and initiatives with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration on sustainable solutions to combat obesity.
Chulalongkorn University and Novo Nordisk reaffirm their shared commitment to advancing healthcare through innovation and cooperation—paving the way for a more informed and health-conscious future in Thailand.
About the ‘Obesity Connects’ Line Official Account:
The Obesity Connects Line OA offers a range of features designed to support people with obesity and the general public, including:
Two-Way Communication: People with obesity who are being treated at Chulalongkorn Hospital can interact directly with healthcare providers, ask questions, and receive personalised advice.
Personal Weight Control Functions: People with obesity or even the general public can access tools that help manage their weights more effectively, including a calorie calculator and body weight loss graph.
Resources: Access to a wealth of information on obesity particularly the Truth About Weight site, sponsored by Novo Nordisk.
